July has been designated as UV Awareness Month. In honor of this, Aquaman Pools offers the following sun safety tips that can be practiced all year round.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, UV rays are an “invisible kind of radiation that comes from the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps.” UV rays can not only damage skin cells and cause premature aging, too much exposure to ultraviolet light is the cause of most skin cancers. While it’s a good idea to practice sun safety year around, pool lovers should practice extra caution in the summertime, when UV rays are the most intense. (Though it’s important to know that UV rays can damage the skin even on cold or cloudy days.)
When hanging pool side, swimmers (and loungers!) should slather up with plenty of sunscreen and reapply it often. While the higher the SPF, the better, the American Cancer Society also recommends selecting a sunscreen with “broad spectrum protection.” An article on the organization’s website explains that while all sunscreen products protect against UVB rays, “which are the main cause of sunburn and skin cancers,” broad spectrum sunscreens also protect against UVA rays which “contribute to skin cancer and premature aging.”
The organization also reminds that “water resistant” sunscreen does not equate to “waterproof,” stating in fact that “no sunscreens are waterproof or sweatproof.” So be sure to reapply after taking a dip in the pool!
Even when spending time outdoors by the pool, swimmers can practice sun safety by hanging out in the shade when they’re not in the pool. UV rays are strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., so avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during those hours is sun smart!
It’s also a good idea to cover up when hanging pool side. Donning a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses is not just a fashion statement — these accessories are great for protecting one’s skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. When not by the pool but spending time outdoors hiking or gardening, long sleeved shirts, pants and/or clothing with SPF protection is also recommended. There are plenty of moisture-wicking fabrics that are designed to keep wearers cool while also protected from the sun.
When preparing to spend a summer day outdoors by the pool, make sure to practice sun safety. And to get the pool ready for swimming and splashing, give Aquaman Pools a call! The professional pool technicians at Aquaman are always happy to make create clean, safe and sparkling swimming environments for valley families.
