Sunburn Prevention

As a red-head with freckles I know first-hand the misery of sunburn; a lukewarm oatmeal bath after a blistering burn made a real impression on the future of my sun and fun. These few simple steps will go a long way to preserve the fun in your beach experience and reduce the risk of cancer-causing UV sun rays.

First and foremost, recall the sound of your mother’s voice as she asked the question that stopped you in your tracks within inches of the pool as a kid: “Did ya put your sunscreen on?”. A good water proof sunscreen with an SPF rating of 20 will block 95% of the sun’s harmful rays; using a wide spectrum sunscreen will protect against both UVA and UVB radiation. Bear in mind that in order to get adequate protection from your sun block one should apply the equivalent of about one ounce of lotion every time you apply it. Your sunscreen will work best when you apply it 15-30 minutes BEFORE hitting the beach, and again 30 minutes AFTER you’ve arrived.

Not to make light of the obvious, but throwing your hip ball cap on will keep the sun off your nose, and with a wide enough brim, your ears as well. These two very sensitive areas are more prone to sun damage given the delicate skin that covers your hide there; your scalp is no more durable than the aforementioned. For my dollar, there is no hat hipper than my ragged old straw Shady Brady. Worn low over my eyes with cool shades, it protects AND ups my cool factor.

Finally, pride before fall; put a shirt on. I have a thin, light weight Capalene (IE – polyester) shirt that I wear that not only wicks moisture away from my skin to keep me cooler, but also keeps my epidermis covered. I’m no sun worshiper, nor do I have the six-pack abs, so sporting a light colored long-sleeved shirt takes nothing away from my beach-chic image.

For me, being at Virginia Beach is all about wave riding and water play. Covering up at the beach is a short-term investment with long-term pay offs. Besides, farmers tan and raccoon eyes aren’t cool! … that is unless you’re a farmer or a raccoon.