The Square Life

An apt title for a dating story, but here we are being more literal. The sunshiny days of a Utah summer are amongst the best there are. But don’t be fooled. That sun can burn you. There are options to avoid such pain, but if you don’t want to wear a long sleeved black turtleneck to Seven Peaks, here are some other tips to keep you aware, and safe from the suns happy, harmful rays.

SPF- what is it? Sun Protection Factor. It is a measurement of how much longer you can stay in the sun and not burn. Example- an SPF 15 will help you stay outside 15 times longer than you would otherwise. They range from 4 to 70, so choose wisely. Go to www.sunprotection.org to take a test and find out what SPF is best for you. I am a sun worshiper, and they gave me an SPF 30 recommendation.

Remember the following about sunscreen- it expires. If it is a year old, it’s time for a new bottle. It will not stay effective.

Apply sunscreen often. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to penetrate the skin. Reapply every two hours and after any time in the water. Also, you need to use more in the following conditions: windy, high altitudes, if you’re sweating, or after rubbing with clothes or a towel.

A tan is actually a defense mechanism. Your skin feels those harmful rays and produces melanin, which provides the dark pigment. Melanin protects your vulnerable lower layers of skin from the sun. Next time you show off that great tan, remember it is really your skins cry for help.

Don‘t forget your sunglasses. Doctors recommend them anytime you are starting to squint. They can prevent cataracts and even the possible sunburn of the cornea.

Clothing has SPF as well. Hats: SPF 3-6; Light weight clothing: SPF 6.5; Special sun protective clothing: SPF 30