Have fun in the sun but don't forget the sunscreen

Right at Home | Blog

Infographic: Have Fun in the Sun…but Don’t Forget the Sunscreen

Many of us have been holed up indoors for months now. It’s time to get out and enjoy the sun! Sunlight lowers depression, and enables our bodies to manufacture vitamin D. But to protect our skin from premature aging and skin cancer, we should use sunscreen while we’re soaking up those rays. Here’s a quick overview of effective sunscreen use.

sunscreeninfographicfull-min

Dermatologists say this is what we should know.

Read the label. Here’s what to look for.

SPF (sun-protection factor). This number tells how effectively it blocks harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Choose an SPF of 30 or higher.

Broad spectrum. Protects against both UVA radiation (associated with skin aging) and UVB radiation (which causes sunburn). Both can cause skin cancer.

Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.

Use enough to cover your whole body (one ounce for most adults). Don’t forget ears, top of scalp, legs and feet. Ask someone to help you with your back. You’ll need more every two hours. Reapply after swimming, or if you’re sweating.

Do I need sunscreen if…

I’m not at the beach? Yes, use whenever you’re outside.

It’s cloudy out? You can still get sunburn, so use it.

More sun protection tips

Wear a broad-brimmed hat.

Avoid peak sun exposure (between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.).

Protect your eyes with sunglasses.

Stay in the shade.

Right at Home offers in-home care to seniors and adults with disabilities who want to live independently. Most Right at Home offices are independently owned and operated, and directly employ and supervise all caregiving staff.

Latest Resources for Seniors

Featured article

Caring for a Loved One With Aphasia

Learn more about aphasia, the limitations it can cause, and how you can help a loved one.

Learn more

Protect Against Scams Targeting Seniors

Most older adults don’t expect to fall for a scam, but according to the FBI, scams targeting people age 60 and older caused over $3.4 billion in losses in 2023. That’s an increase of 14% over the previous year. This means people should be more vigilant than ever to protect their assets. Here are tips to help.

Cold-Weather Safety Planning for Seniors

In many parts of the country, colder weather is settling in, and people are preparing for snow, ice, and sleet, common in winter. If you live in the northern part of the U.S., here are tips and a cold-weather safety checklist you can download to ensure you and your older loved one are prepared.

Buying Guide: Medical Alert Systems Have Come a Long Way

The U.S. market size of medical alert systems was estimated at $2.28 billion in 2023. There is no shortage of options available. As a consumer, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Here are some key things to consider if you are in the market for a medical alert system.