Helpful tips to avoid sunburn

Shorts? Check. T-shirt? Check. Flip-flops? Check. It’s official. Summer is almost here!

When the sun starts beaming down those glorious rays, it’s natural to want to be out in it and bask in the warmth. You may already be thinking about your tan and how best to get back to a happy color.

But wait, there’s danger up there! Sunburn can be just an annoyance or a serious hazard to your health. It can also vary from person to person, where one person’s habits could spell serious trouble to another person’s skin.

Luckily, you can enjoy the sunlight safely by following these tips:

• Shield yourself — Suntan lotion is a lifesaver. Slather on that SPF and feel no shame as you strut about in the sun.
• Cover up — Sometimes, the best solution is the oldest. Wearing a long-sleeve shirt of light fabric can help protect your skin while not making you overheated.
• Limit your exposure — Don’t push your luck. Most of us know how long we take to bake, so head back under your umbrella or back inside to take regular breaks from the sun.
• Time of day — The middle of the day is the worst for your risk of sunburn. Staying outside before 10 am and after 3 pm can lower your risk of UV rays - and still be tons of fun.

Get out there and enjoy the warm days safely and confidently and avoid turning red with embarrassment from not following these easy tips.