Before hitting the lake or the trail, however, it is important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from sun’s summer heat.
With May being the month of skin cancer awareness it seems fitting to start there. Yes, everyone knows to put that sun block on, but finding the right kind and applying it correctly is just as important.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before exposure. Using a Sun Protection Factor of 15 or higher is sufficient if it is applied every two hours and directly after activities like swimming. It is also suggested that a person uses at least two table spoons to cover their body.
Extra care should be taken when applying sunscreen to the face because the facial skin is thinner and needs extra protection. You may want to put a little extra on or use a higher SPF. When perusing the isle at the drug store, look for sunscreens that provide ultraviolet-A and ultraviolet-B protection to ensure more complete coverage.
The National Cancer Institute strongly advises that to avoid skin damage and skin cancer, the best prevention is to simply stay out of the sun, especially the mid-day sun. Also important is to seek cover as soon as a change in skin color is noticed or feeling of intense heat on the skin is noticed.
With all the worry about making sure skin is protected, it is easy to forget about keeping one’s inside healthy and hydrated during the heat. The key to staying hydrated is to drink up before getting thirsty. Thirst is the first sign of dehydration.
Nursing that large water bottle throughout the day, even if one is not thirsty, may just be the best thing anyone can do. When participating in activities like water skiing, hiking, and summer sports it is easy to forget that these are considered exercise.
According to the American Council on Exercise, one should drink around 17-20 ounces of water two to three hours prior to exercise. They also stress the importance of staying hydrated while playing. Drinking lots and often will help replenish the fluids that are lost.
In the end, it is basic preparation. When heading out for the day, toss sunscreen and plenty of water into a pack and to be ready for the summer months ahead.