Quick Answer
Avoid too much sun exposure by staying in the shade, especially during peak hours between 10am and 4pm. Wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved shirts. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30.
Protecting Your Skin
Wear clothing that covers at least 70% of your skin, including a long-sleeved shirt and pants. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+, which means the fabric will allow only 1/50th of the sun’s UV radiation to pass through. Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Choose a water-resistant sunscreen if you plan to be in the water or sweat heavily. Apply sunscreen to often-overlooked areas, such as the tops of your ears, nose, and the back of your neck.
Staying in the Shade
Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours. Bring a portable canopy or umbrella to create your own shade. If you’re in the desert, look for natural shade sources like trees or rock overhangs.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.