Protect Yourself Against the Sun – Learn These Preventive Tips!

Summer will pass, but the sun still shines everywhere. For some, the last months of summer is the perfect period for family beach vacations. However, you can never evade or hide from the negative effects the rays of the sun bring to us.

Before heading to your favorite Philippine tourist attractions, you have to know that most beach-goers are at risk to have skin cancer. This is because the sand and water reflect up to 80% of the sun's rays which contributes to total sun exposure.

With over 3.5 million cases of skin cancer listed yearly, sun protection must not be taken for granted.  Of the huge number of cases recorded, 90% of these are related to sun exposure specifically sun tanning & sun bathing.

However, it can be prevented by following these tips:

1. If you're going to an island to have fun for the entire day, selecting a water-resistant sunscreen with a minimum 30 Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is recommended by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA). Also, waterproof sunblocks must be replaced after 40 minutes of submerging in the water.



2. There are also water-impermeable sunblocks which can last up to 80 minutes. To assure that you are protected from UVA Radiation, choose sunblocks that has ingredients like ecamsule, oxybenzone, avobenzone, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

3. To guarantee that you are well protected, you need to apply the sun protection substance 30 minutes before exposing yourself under the sun. Do not forget to apply sunblock on the edges of your bathing suit so that your skin will be equally toned.

4. After two hours of soaking in the water, repeat the application of your chosen sun blocking cream. To protect your face, eyes and head, wearing of hats and sunglasses is highly recommended. Shirts with long sleeves and long pants can protect you from the striking heat of the sun.

Always remember this when going to any sandy beach location – the heat of the sun is at its most harmful between 10 AM to 4 PM. If you want to go swimming, try it early in the morning (6AM-8AM) or late in the afternoon (3PM-5PM). The water is cooler once you dip at these hours. What's more, you can enjoy Philippine tourist attractions along with the brightest sunrise and the beautiful sunset.