Working outdoors definitely has its benefits – ah, fresh air and sunshine! But that same sunlight can also have damaging effects. Sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer are just some of the risks that come with prolonged sun exposure.
But with the right protection, you can still enjoy working outside without worrying about damaging your skin. So let’s explore why your skin needs sun protection. We’ll also give you some handy tips on how to protect your skin from the sun and recommend some products to get the job done.
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Why Your Skin Needs Sun Protection
Here comes the sun! It warms us, cheers us, and provides essential vitamin D. But you can absolutely (and easily) get too much of a good thing.
The sun emits two types of ultraviolet (UV) radiation: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, leading to premature aging, wrinkles, and age spots. UVB rays cause sunburn and can also contribute to skin cancer.
Both types of radiation can damage the DNA in your skin cells, which increases the risk of skin cancer. So, it’s important to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
Pro Tip: Yes, you can get sunburned on a cloudy day. This is especially true if you have fair skin or light-colored eyes, have had a sunburn before, or you’re taking certain medications that cause sun sensitivity.
Related: 6 Springtime Must-Haves for Your Yard
5 Tips to Protect Your Skin from the Sun
If you work outdoors, make planning for sun protection part of your routine as you prepare for work. The right skincare products, clothing, and accessories can help you protect your skin and your health.
1. Wear Sunscreen
One of the best ways to protect your skin from the sun is to apply sunscreen before going outside. Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it to all exposed areas of skin. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours (or more often if you’re sweating or swimming).
Tula Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Stay protected from sun, pollution, and blue light with this skincare-first, non-comedogenic sunscreen.
Neutrogena Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Lightweight, SPF 50 water-resistant sunscreen spray lasts for up to 80 minutes.
2. Seek Shade
Another way to protect your skin is to seek shade during the hottest parts of the day. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to avoid prolonged exposure during these hours. If you can’t avoid being outside, seek shade under a tree, umbrella, or other protective structure as often as you can.
Member’s Mark Premium 10′ Sunbrella Market Umbrellas
High-performance fabrics in a range of on-trend colors resist fading, mildew, and stains. Auto-tilt function makes it easy to adjust the angle.
3. Wear a Hat
Wearing a hat is an easy way to protect your face, neck, and ears from the sun. Choose a hat with a wide brim that shades your face and neck. If you’re bald or have thinning hair, consider wearing a hat with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating.
Under Armour Women’s Iso-Chill Launch Wrapback Cap
Specially designed fibers lie flat against your skin to evenly disperse heat, so it literally feels cool to the touch.
Under Armour Men’s Freedom Blitzing Hat
Built-in HeatGear® sweatbands wick sweat to help keep you cool. Stretchy materials breathe as you work to keep you comfortable and focused.
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4. Wear Sunglasses
Sunglasses not only protect your eyes from the sun’s glare but also protect the delicate skin around your eyes. Look for sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection and wear them whenever you’re outside.
Related: Yes, You Need to Protect Your Eyes from Snow
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5. Stay Hydrated
When you’re working outside, you’re more likely to become dehydrated, which can make your skin more vulnerable to sun damage. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin (and yourself!) hydrated.
Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate™ Tumbler (40 oz)
Maximum hydration, fewer refills! Thanks to Stanley’s vacuum insulation, your water will stay ice-cold for hours.
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Clothing to Protect Your Skin from the Sun
While sunscreen and shade are important, clothing can also provide an extra layer of protection against the sun’s rays. Here are some tips on what to wear:
Look for UPF Clothing
UPF clothing is specifically designed to protect against the sun’s harmful rays. Look for clothing with a UPF rating of 50 or higher, which blocks out 98% of UV radiation.
Columbia Sportswear Omni Shade Sun Deflector Clothing
Blocks UVA and UVB rays to protect against skin damage. Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation.
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Wear a Neck Gaiter
This tubular piece of fabric can be worn around your neck and pulled up to cover your face and ears. It’s a great way to protect your skin from the sun while also keeping cool.
Under Armour Iso-Chill Brushline Gaiter
Iso-Chill fabric helps disperse body heat while the material wicks sweat and dries fast.
Working outdoors can be enjoyable, but it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. By following the tips above, you can reduce your risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Remember to wear sunscreen, seek shade, wear protective clothing, and stay hydrated whenever you’re outside.
