How to dress to protect against sun damage

As much as we love the sun, we have to be careful when spending long hours outside, especially at the beach. Sun exposure can lead to a variety of health problems, from premature aging to skin cancer. One of the easiest ways to protect ourselves is by wearing the right beach clothing.

Here are some tips on how to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays with beach clothing:

1. Choose the right fabrics

The type of fabric you wear can make a big difference in how much protection you get from the sun. Look for fabrics that have a tight weave, as they provide better protection than those with a looser weave. Also, opt for fabrics that are designed to block the sun

2. Cover up with a hat

A wide-brimmed hat is an excellent way to protect your face, neck, and shoulders from the sun. Choose a hat with a brim that is at least 2-3 inches wide for the best protection. A floppy hat can also provide additional coverage to your ears and neck. 

3. Wear sunglasses

Wearing sunglasses is not just a fashion statement. It's also essential for protecting your eyes from the sun's harmful rays. Look for sunglasses with a UV (Ultraviolet) protection rating of 400 or higher. This rating indicates that the glasses block 99-100% of UV rays.

4. Choose light-colored clothing

Light-colored clothing is a better option than dark-colored clothing when it comes to sun protection. Dark colors absorb more sunlight, while light colors reflect it. This means that light-colored clothing provides better protection from the sun's harmful rays.

5. Don't forget the sunscreen

Even if you're wearing sun-protective clothing, it's still essential to wear sunscreen. Apply sunscreen to any exposed skin, such as your face, neck, and hands. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

6. Look for beach clothing with built-in sun protection

Many beach clothing brands now offer clothing with built-in sun protection. These garments are designed to provide maximum sun protection and are made with fabrics that block the sun's harmful rays.

7. Cover up with a beach cover-up

A beach cover-up is not just a fashion accessory. It's also an excellent way to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Look for beach cover-ups made from lightweight fabrics that offer sun protection, such as cotton or linen.

8. Stay in the shade

The best way to protect yourself from the sun is by staying in the shade. Look for areas with natural shade, such as under a tree or a beach umbrella. If you're at the beach, consider bringing your own shade, such as a beach tent or a canopy.

In conclusion, protecting yourself from the sun's harmful rays is essential, especially when spending long hours outside, such as at the beach. By following these tips on how to protect yourself with beach clothing, you can enjoy your time in the sun while staying safe and healthy. Remember to choose the right fabrics, cover up with a hat and sunglasses, wear light-colored clothing, apply sunscreen, look for clothing with built-in sun protection, cover up with a beach cover-up, and stay in the shade.