Sanibel has miles and miles of white sandy beaches, sunshine and countless outdoor activities. With all of this fun you need to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Although some amount of sun exposure is essential as a source of Vitamin D (which aids our bodies in absorption of calcium). Too much sun exposure can lead to adverse health effects, including skin cancer. More than 1 million people in the US are diagnosed with skin cancer each year, making it the most common form of cancer. It is largely preventable. We encourage you to take proactive measures to protect yourself from harmful sun exposure. When you are near the reflective surfaces such as, gulf waters and sand this is even more important.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen (which blocks both UVA & UBA rays) with a sun protection factor (SPF) value of 30 or higher is recommended. SPF 30 can block out about 97% of UV rays. If you want even more SPF 50 can block out 98% of UV rays, if applied and reapplied correctly. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) recommends applying sunscreen 20 minutes before going out in the sun (or as directed by the manufacturer) to give time to absorb into your skin. Don’t forget your lips, ears, feet, hands, bald spots, the back of your neck, under bathing suit straps, under jewelry and under sunglasses. Apply it generously and regularly; about 1 ounce every 2 hours and more often if swimming or perspiring. Speaking of swimming and perspiring water resistance is also an important benefit to maintain protection. No sunscreen is waterproof they are water-resistant and must still be reapplied after swimming or sweating.
Your clothes can also aid in sun protection for a long day at the beach. A wide-brimmed hat to shade your face, sunglasses with UV protection that completely cover your eyes, long-sleeved shirts & pants with tightly woven fabric are helpful in reducing exposure to the sun. If hanging out at the beach we always recommend a beach umbrella or tent, so you can always find some shade.
You should also limit your time in the midday sun. The rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Keep in mind that even on an overcast day you can get sunburned. Note that clouds can even intensify rather than diminish the sun’s effects. So always be sure to take precaution regardless of the weather conditions.
Last but not least, the EPA recommends keeping babies out of the direct sunlight.
See the EPA’s The Burning Fact, fact sheet here.
Now that you have all of the sun facts and precautions you’re ready to book your Sanibel Holiday Vacation here.