Sun Safety on the Beach

With summer in full swing, throngs of beach goers are hitting South Carolina beaches daily. Everyone knows the dangers of going without sunscreen but we could all use a refresher on sun safety once in a while.
One thing many visitors don’t realize is how fast sunburns can happen on the beach. Oftentimes beach breezes keep your skin feeling cool which masks the sensation of burning skin. Here are a few tips to make sure your Myrtle Beach vacation isn’t derailed by a painful, (and potentially dangerous) sunburn.

 

Use a Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

Make sure your sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays. If it doesn’t say it blocks both you won’t be fully protected. Most sun safety experts also advise sun goers to use sunscreens that are SPF 15 or higher. Young children should use SPF 30 or higher. Remember to reapply the sunscreen regularly, especially after you’ve been in the water a long time or if you are sweating profusely.

Hit the Beach Early in the Morning

It’s better to get up early and enjoy the beach before the sun’s rays become too intense. The hours between 10 am and 4 pm are the worst for sun exposure. Take a break during the middle of the day for some shopping or lunch and then return in late afternoon.

Wear A Hat

Skin cancer is no joke, and protecting your skin is important. Choose a broad brimmed hat to accent your beach wear. Your skin will thank you later. If you’re in Myrtle Beach and find yourself without a hat, there are many beach shops with great selections. Want to be the most fashionable hat wearer on the beach? Hit up Hat’s Galore in Barefoot Landing for a huge selection of trendy styles.

Wear Long Loose Clothing

If you have to be out in the sun during the most intense hours for UV exposure try to wear long loose clothing. If you’re out golfing it’s a good idea to reapply sunscreen to your lips, ears and face every couple of hours. Golfers can get sunburned too!

Don’t Spend the Whole Day at the Beach

Most experts don’t advise folks to spend an entire day at the beach. However, when you’re on vacation sometimes you just don’t follow expert advice. If you must spend the entire day on the sand plan on taking periodic shade breaks. Use a beach umbrella or portable shade canopy and get out of the sun whenever possible. The sun, sand and waves are fun, but protecting yourself from the harmful effects of UV rays, including possible skin cancer, should be your number one priority. After all, The Grand Strand beaches will be here for years to come, and you should be too!

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