Staying Safe in the Sun: Why You Need UVA Protection Even in the Fall

The undeniable impact of climate change, regardless of where you believe the fault of that lies, has meant that seasons mean less than they previously did. That means even though we are now in October, the dangers of the sun are still very much evident, and as such, you need to make sure you stay safe.

While it’s true, the temperature will likely drop in your part of the world, especially now that we are in October, this doesn’t mean you are safe from the damaging effects of the sun. With this in mind, it’s always useful to prepare yourself effectively.

Here are a few tips and helpful advice to keep you as safe as possible.

Wear Sunglasses With Adequate UVA Protection

A great way to protect yourself from the danger of UVA rays is to wear a quality pair of sunglasses that will protect your eyes from being damaged. This is especially relevant for those who lead active outdoor lifestyles.

If you are partaking in sporting pastimes or exercising during the day, you should visit GlassesUSA.com, where you can find a great selection of eyewear that will protect you from the sun and complement and enhance your style and look.

Just Because It’s Cooler, Doesn’t Mean It’s Safe

Yes, the temperature will drop a little less than it did previously, but contrary to popular belief, cooler weather doesn’t mean you are less susceptible to the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays.

Wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants is a good start when it comes to keeping your skin covered, but your hands, neck, and face need to be protected with the relevant sunscreen.

Clouds Are Not Your Friend

It may be a cloudy day, but that doesn’t mean you are safe from the suns’ rays; over 80% of these rays get through the cloud cover. So, in essence, even though there is cloud cover, this doesn’t mean you can’t be harmed by the sun that does get through. In other words, even though it may not feel as hot, your skin is still being exposed.

We can sometimes get complacent during these early autumn months, feeling that now that summer has passed, you can get away with being less protective about yourself and your loved ones. However, you should guard against such carelessness as much as is humanly possible.

Wear the Right Sunscreen

Make sure that you use the correct sunscreen so as to get the best possible protection from it. Pick one that has broad-spectrum protection; this means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Look to use sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30; the higher the SPF, the more protection you receive. This is particularly relevant for those who are more susceptible to burns and skin damage when exposed to the sun.

It’s important to note that sunscreen that is 15 or lower does protect against sunburn but not against skin cancer or the effects of skin aging.

When applying sunscreen be liberal about it. Don’t be afraid to use ample amounts, especially in areas of danger. When putting sunscreen on your children, try to ignore any protestations, and apply as much as is possible and as often as necessary.

Water Resistant Is Not the Same as Waterproof

Sunscreens should be applied regularly, especially if you are outdoors for long periods of time, and none of these is ‘waterproof,’ and they are, in fact, usually water-resistant. This means that they lose their effectiveness when you get wet and will usually come off entirely when you use a towel after you’ve been in the pool or the sea.

Therefore you should look to reapply your sunscreen every two hours just to be safe.

Stay In the Shade

If you reside in an area where it tends to be dark, wet, or overcast much of the year, then you probably long for the sun and try to stay out in it as long as possible.

This isn’t a great idea, and you should try to enjoy your time outdoors from areas that offer shade as and when necessary. So if you are out with your family on a day trip, try to make sure you are in an area that offers some shading that is within easy reach.

Avoid Peak Sun and Cover Up

Even in the fall, you should minimize your time out in the sun during the peak hours of the day. This tends to be from around 10 am to 3 pm, so look to avoid this time as much as possible.

When you are outside between these hours, try to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible. The looser the clothing, the more comfortable you’ll feel, and therefore the more bearable it is during, the hotter portions of the day.

Check the UV Index Before Heading Out

If you know you are going to be outdoors for a long time, then always check the UV index in the area you are visiting. The Index runs from 1 to 11+; the higher that number gets, the more dangerous it will be to be exposed to the sun.

The number is based on the amount of UV radiation that is reaching your locality, and it’s key information to be aware of and doubly do if you have to be outside for hours on end.

Be Sensible

Clearly, we all enjoy spending time outside when the weather is nice, but you should always err on the side of caution when doing so. This is even more important when you are out with young family members, who are even more in danger of the harmful effects that come with being exposed to the elements.

It is entirely possible to be cautious and still enjoy your time out in the sun; it’s a case of balancing your enjoyment with just the right amount of awareness for you and your loved ones.