How to Protect yourself from UVA and UVB rays on Beach?
Life cannot be imagined on earth, without the sun.
Sunlight has ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B (UVA and UVB) rays.
The positive side of UV rays is the production of vitamin D which is essential for human health. As it helps the human body in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from food. It is also useful for bone development.
However, there are some negative effects of UV rays on the human body.
They are the major cause of skin damage.
The total amount of UV rays is 10% which affects skin sensitivity in several ways. Besides, damaging the skin, it also affects the eyes and the immune system.
So, learn, how to protect yourself from UVA and UV rays’ harmful effects on Beach.
Related: Best SPF Sun Hats for UV Protection
But first, What are UVA and UVB rays?
UVA rays:
They have lower energy levels but a higher wavelength. They can affect the skin cells deeply because they are more powerful than other rays. Moreover, it causes skin aging, skin tanning, and wrinkles. Also, these rays lead to some other skin diseases such as skin cancer.
As they have a high wavelength, thus, they can easily enter through windows and clouds. It forms 95% of all the UV rays that make it on the earth.
UVB rays:
As compared to UVA, UVB rays have smaller wavelengths and higher energy levels. They harm the DNA in a straight line which is the reason for most types of skin cancer. It also causes premature aging.
As they have a shorter wavelength, thus, they can’t enter the house from windows and glass. The Ozone layer captivates these rays, so, only 5% of the UVB rays can reach the earth.
10 Ways to Protect yourself from UVA and UVB rays on Beach
Use of Sunscreens
Sunscreens are easily available at any cosmetic and medical store. You can find it in many forms i.e. lotions, creams, gels, sprays, and ointments.
While purchasing any sunscreen, you should consider the primary element – SPF. As much of the UVB rays can be filtered through SPF sunscreens. SPF 50 blocks almost 98% of UV rays and SPF 30 filters 97% of UV rays. Further, the broad-spectrum SPF 15 sunscreens help to protect against various skin cancers.
You don’t need to apply sunscreen on your lips for the preservation of the UV rays of the sun. You can use lip balm that contains SPF which will help for the prevention of sunburn and damage to cells.
Wear Suitable Clothes:
One of the essential parts to protect yourself against harmful UV rays is wearing proper clothes. For example, long-sleeved shirts and pants are best for protection from UV rays. Moreover, you should wear proper clothes throughout the year because UV rays can damage your skin even in the clouds and winters.
Wear Sunglasses
Effective sunglasses can also prevent cell damage to the eyes due to UV rays. Use sunglasses that protect you from 100% UV rays of the sun.
Avoid Sunlight
Try to avoid sun exposure between 10:00 Am to 4:00 Pm. At this time the sun’s rays are more intense, so, if it’s not an emergency then try to stay inside for the protection of your skin from the harmful UV rays.
Wear a Long Hat:
You can wear a trendy hat to protect yourself from the sun’s UV rays and also make a fashion statement. It will protect your neck, face, and eyes from sunburn and many other diseases related to skin cancers.
Use of Umbrella
If you are not a hat-lover, try to bring an umbrella with you when going outside from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. It will prevent sun damage and skin tanning due to UV rays.
Be Careful near the Reflective Surfaces
Try to be extra careful when you are near reflective areas such as water, snow, sand, and a building’s window. As they can reflect those harmful rays that damage the skin cells badly and increases the chances of skin cancers.
If can’t avoid those places, then use shades, tents, or a canopy.
Use of Solar Screens
Solar screens are dark panels that can be placed on the window of houses and buildings. There are many benefits apart from less sun blaze for example they will protect the curtains, carpet, and wood furniture from fading effect which is often caused by direct sunlight in the home through windows.
Solar screens prevent the heat of the sun’s rays inside the rooms and offices. Thus, it keeps the room cool and refreshing which also helps to save money on the air conditioner bill during the summer season. Further, the heat of sunlight that the solar screen lets inside, is also helpful for indoor plants.
Use Coconut Oil
How to protect yourself from UVA and UVB rays, naturally? Coconut oil is one of the natural products which can be used for the prevention of harmful rays to the skin. This oil blocks 20% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. It can be mainly used for children because their skins are sensitive and sunscreens are not a good option for your little ones.
Boost Natural Sun Protection of the Body
Various natural foods enhance your skin’s ability to defend and protect against sunburn, skin cancers, and skin damage. Some of them are citrus, strawberries, carrots, green tea, and pomegranate. They boost natural sun protection in the skin cells.
