An Eco-Friendly Guide to Sun Safety for the Whole Family

Lacie Martin is the co-founder of Raise Them Well, an online resource for parents with tips to enhance the wonder years of raising children.

A warm summer day outdoors offers plenty of amusement for the entire family, kids and adults alike. From beach trips to park picnics, there are many ways to keep busy. Whatever activity you opt for, you want to make sure you're protecting yourself against the sun. Ultraviolet rays can cause sunburns and increase your risk of skin cancer. This guide provides tips for enjoying the sun in a way that's fun, safe, and eco-friendly.

Invest in sun-protective apparel

Special UV protective clothing provides a barrier between your skin and the sun. Sun50 has sun protective clothing and accessories for men and women from hats to shirts and more. Long-sleeved pants and shirts are ideal, along with a hat and sunglasses. Their environmentally friendly clothing is 100% made in the United States with eco-conscious, natural fabrics that aren't chemically altered.

Don't forget the SPF

In addition to wearing UV protective clothes, you also want to apply sunscreen. This is especially important for exposed parts of your body, like your hands, face, and feet. Look for eco-friendly sunscreens that won't harm the environment. For example, if you're going to the beach, you want products that won't harm coral reefs. Make sure kids are wearing sunscreen, too. It's recommended to get a product with SPF 30 or higher for children.

Embrace sun-friendly activities

Try to stick to the shade, especially when the sun's rays are strongest from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. There are many family-friendly activities you can enjoy in the shade, from card games to reading. For added comfort, set up a small tent to protect yourself against the rays and keep cool while you play. This is especially useful at the beach, where you can't rely on trees for shade. Also, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking enough water.

Create an outdoor space where you can keep cool

A tent can be a great temporary solution for creating shade at the beach. However, you should opt for more permanent sun protection when it comes to your home. You can increase your property's appraisal value by upgrading your outdoor space with things like a pergola or shady terrace. Make sure to keep track of any improvements. Showing the receipts can help show how much you invested in the house, increasing its value.

Spending summer days in the sun can be a great way to enjoy time together as a family. However, you don't want your quality time to be cut short because of nuisances like sunburns. Trust the tips above to help you stay safe while enjoying the warm weather.

Want to learn more about staying safe while enjoying fun in the sun? This blog has you covered.