Swimming is one of the only ways to stay cool in Phoenix, Arizona especially when the temperatures are in the triple digits. Even when you’re swimming though — especially when you’re swimming — you need to protect your skin from sunburn. When you’re out in the sun you need to know how to protect yourself from sunburn because a “little bit of redness” can very quickly turn into blistered, painful skin.
The swimming pool service contractors from Express Pool Care talk with their pool customers who are looking for ways to protect their skin while enjoying fun in the pool and in the summer sun. Being under an umbrella or a gazebo rooftop when you’re not in the water is one of the best ways to prevent sunburn, but if you don’t want to simply lounge around reading a book, how can you prevent a sunburn?
How to protect yourself from sunburn
- Don’t let yourself burn. When you get a sunburn you increase your risk of developing skin cancer, this is especially true for children and babies.
- Apply sunscreen. Reapply sunscreen. The rule of thumb is one ounce of suncreen to cover your exposed skin. Apply sunscreen about 15 minutes before you go into the sun. Look for a sunscreen that as an SPG (sun protection factor) of at least 15 and one that will protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays. The sunscreen should be applied every hour or two — even on cloudy days. Reapply if you’ve been swimming or sweating. Use a higher SPF to truly protect your skin. Don’t forget to put sunscreen on the top of your ears and even your head.
- Look for protective clothing — long sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses and a hat to prevent sun exposure. Many items of clothing now will wick away sweat — keeping you cool — and also protect you from sunburn.
- Take shade breaks. Get out of the pool frequently and seek the shade. Remember the sun’s UV rays are the most powerful between 10 am and 4 pm.
- Listen to the weather reports and check on the UV index. This index will help you plan your outdoor poolside activities and help prevent sun exposure. The UV (ultraviolet) index measures the radiation from the sun at particular times throughout the day.
Swim, but do so safely. If you burn, you won’t want to get into the swimming pool until the burn heals and you certainly don’t want to miss pool time! Talk with us about the addition of shades, umbrellas and awnings to protect your pool area.