It will be of no surprise to you to learn that the sun’s UV rays can be bad for you. Ultraviolet radiation can cause skin cancers, cataracts, and can instigate damage to the immune system. Needless to say, some people may be less keen than others on a day out in the sun.
However, we shouldn’t spend the day indoors when the sun is shining, as there are benefits to being out in the sunlight. In many ways, it is can be good for us, as exposure to the sun can elevate our mood states, give our Vitamin D levels a boost, and lower our blood pressure. Forbes goes into more detail on the health benefits that can be afforded us when outdoors.
So, don’t fear an afternoon on the beach or basking in your garden. However, you should still take precautions. From wearing the best smelling, legit sunscreen to wearing shades and peaked caps, you can do much to protect your body from any long-term damage from the sun’s UV rays. You can also benefit from those technologies that can also offer you protection, and we detail some of them below.
1: Sun Protection Clothing
Thanks to the latest in clothing technologies, you can now stay safe with innovative pieces of ‘wearable sunscreen‘ that can protect your body from the long-term damage caused by the sun. The UV Cut products, for example, are designed to block up to 90% of UV radiation and come in all kinds of sizes for children and adults alike. Unlike traditional items of clothing, the UV Cut range has been upgraded with UV blocking and reflecting technology at the fiber level. Not only are they functional, but they are quite stylish too, so you don’t have to forsake fashion for safety.
2: UV Wristbands
These disposable wristbands can indicate to you how much UV you have been exposed to during the day. They are designed to work in conjunction with your sunscreen, as you place your lotion on the band as well as your body. As you spend time outdoors, the wristband will change color, and depending on the color shown you will know when you need to apply more sunscreen, and when you need to get out of the sun and find shelter. UV wristbands are relatively cheap to buy, and because they are placed in a prominent part of your body, you won’t forget your health needs in a hurry.
#3: Phone Apps For UV Monitoring
A number of apps are now available that can show you what times of the day you can safely enjoy the sun, and what times of day when you need to take greater care and apply more sunscreen. They connect to the UV index forecast and can give you a personalized skin type assessment for closer accuracy to your risk levels. These are some of the best iPhone apps available, although there are similar ones available for non-Apple phones too.
To protect yourself from the sun, be sure to consider each of the technologies we have mentioned. You will then be able to enjoy your time outdoors with less risk of sunburn and there will be less risk of any long-term damage, too.