Poolside Fashion Tips for Protecting Yourself from the Sun

Now that the Summer weather has brought consistent highs well into the triple digits, if we are going to spend time outside, then the pool really is one of the few ways to do it. However, with the threat of harmful UV rays, which may quicken aging or worse, cause skin cancer, it is important to know how to stay safe from the sun while still staying cool and looking cute. Here are some tips on how to stay fashionable, cool, and safe, while poolside—in an out of the water!

Sun-protective clothing

Sure, you want to show off your newest swimsuit or get a great tan but save your swimsuit for when you are swimming. When you are poolside, the glare of the water can amplify the power of the sun, reflecting UV rays and making you more susceptible to burns, skin cancer and premature aging.  Add some flare to your poolside look with UPF fashion. UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor and promises that you’ll have a sunscreen barrier imbedded in the fibers of your clothing. Unlike sunscreen, lotions, or creams, there is no need to reapply. Try an after swim UPF robe, long-sleeved shirt, or long pants to cover your skin and protect it from the sun while feeling and looking glamorous.

Eyewear Sun Protection

It’s not just your skin that needs protection from the sun. Sunglasses with UV protection will help keep your eyes safe from macular degeneration or cataracts. Prolonged exposure to UV rays modifies lens proteins, increasing the risk of cataract formation which will worsening eyesight, causing blurry vision. Sunglasses with UV protection will not only make you look fabulous but can also help to protect your eyes from cancers of the eyelid, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. We love a bargain pair of sunglasses, but if it doesn’t have UV protection it won’t really be keeping your eyes safe.

Choose a Natural Mineral Based Sunscreen 

There are so many choices when it comes to sunscreen that it can be difficult to know which one will be the best for you. Some double as a makeup foundation, while others boast being natural and safe for kids. We suggest finding one that has a SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of higher than 30 and beyond. If it is safe for kids that also means that it has less carcinogenic ingredients in it, so it’s always the safest choice. These are usually mineral based and have either titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These two minerals can provide excellent protection; however, they might leave an unpleasant white residue on our skin. We recommend applying it before you get to the pool and taking time to rub it in to reduce the white residue. Remember however, that a white reside on your skin is always better than a sun burn, or skin cancer later!

Be Wary of Windows, Clouds, and Shade

While at the pool or even while sitting beside a window, if the sun isn’t directly shining upon you, it’s a common mistake to think your safe. However, on the rare cloudy days we experience out here are often the days where the sun can catch us off guard. Even when the sun is covered by clouds, we can be susceptible to sun burns. Similarly, if we are sitting under an awning, while we may not be directly in the ray of the suns, we are not free from UVA rays. While it is UVB rays that cause sun burns, UVA rays can cause premature skin aging such as wrinkles and sunspots. Surprisingly, even when we are sitting beside a window in our own home or car, UVA rays can still cause damage to our skin. 

CC Sunscreens

Remember to keep up with sun protection even when under an awning or sun umbrella and while you are at it, a consider investing in CC Sunscreen patio shades and window screens. If you have a pool in your backyard to help you survive the hot long days of summer, we recommend our patio shades which block out 90 percent of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, ensuring you’ll be safe from the sun while enjoying time by the pool. Meanwhile our window screens can help you stay safe from the sun in the comfort of your own home. To find out more, contact us today!