Don’t Forget your Sunblock when Traveling for Spring Break!

Whether you are on the beach or shoveling snow it’s never too late to start taking preventative measures against the sun and its harmful UV rays.

• Sunburns are likely to occur near both water and snow. Snow and water are very reflective. It’s just like amplifying the sun’s rays. People can get sunburns on cloudy days too, since the UV rays penetrate through the clouds.
• The sun’s rays are strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sun block should be reapplied every 90 minutes. The use of hats and protective clothing is also helpful.
• Certain medications and over-the-counter anti-aging products can make people especially susceptible to the sun’s damaging effects.
• There are no longer any excuses! There are many sunblock products available, from sport sticks to sprays.
  Dos and don’ts:
  • Do apply sun block even on cloudy days. Remember that areas near snow and water are common places to get sunburns.
  • Do purchase a sun block that has an SPF of at least 30. Higher SPFs are available, but do not offer much more incremental benefit.
  • Don’t spend too much time directly in the sun unprotected between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the rays are the strongest.
  • Don’t use last year’s leftover sunscreen. Purchase a fresh supply.