Summer is “officially” almost here, but for many of us the season has already begun with long evenings spent by the lake, backyard barbecues and the welcome sound of an approaching ice cream truck, however, the increased exposure to things like sunlight, insects, and poisonous plants can cause some itchy and painful rashes.

Fortunately, there a few simple steps people can take to avoid unwanted rashes, which can quickly sideline summer fun.

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause skin damage in as little as 15 minutes. Prolonged exposure and damage can lead to various forms of skin cancer, many of which, thankfully, are preventable. The sun isn’t the only skin-damaging predator — tanning beds, smoking and unhealthy diet can also have ill effects on the body’s outer layer.

Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. 

This is when the sun is most intense and produces the greatest chance of sunburn. If you must be outside during these hours, seek shade by using an umbrella, a tree or other type of shelter. Use protective clothing and sunscreen even when in the shade.

Apply sunscreen often.

If you do nothing else for your skin this summer, wear sunscreen.

Look for sunscreens that offer:

• at least SPF 30
• broad spectrum protection
• lip protection

The most important thing is that you need to protect your skin from the sun, If you don’t do that, your skin will age faster and increase your risk of skin cancer.

Wear sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection.

 Proper, protective sunglasses help prevent damage to the sensitive skin around your eyes, as well as cataracts.

Be aware of medications that increase your sensitivity to the sun. 

Some antibiotics and over-the-counter medications can make you more sensitive to sunlight. Common drugs include antihistamines, such as Benadryl; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like aspirin or ibuprofen; certain antibiotics, including Bactrim or Tetracycline; antidepressants; antipsychotics; and some oral diabetic medications. Check with your pharmacist regarding your medication side effects.

Dress smart.

Don’t just browse the beauty aisle when revamping your skin care routine for summer. I suggest venturing into the clothing section, too.

Summer duds to don include:

• wide brimmed hats
• UV-400 sunglasses
• dark-colored clothes with woven fabrics or UV absorbers

Personally, I always wear a wide-brimmed hat outside during the summer, even when I’m walking my dog.

Hats can help shield the face and eyes from the sun. Sunglasses help, too, look for a pair of sunnies with UV-400 on the label for optimal protection.

Protect youngsters. 

Children younger than six months should not use sunscreen but should be protected from the sun’s rays with protective clothing and shade. Children six months or older should have sunscreen applied regularly when outdoors.

Perform regular skin checks.

Look for any changes to moles, freckles or birthmarks. Additionally, monitor any new skin changes that have occurred. Use a mirror to evaluate hard-to-see areas, and have regular skin evaluations by your health care provider or dermatologist.

Proper hydration is great for your body, your skin and even your mind.

To improve the look and feel of your skin, you want to attract moisture inside and keep it there. Here are a few ways to do it:

• Limit your showers to 5 or 10 minutes in lukewarm water.
• Use gentle soaps, laundry detergents, and cosmetics.
• Turn on a humidifier during the winter.
• Drink extra water throughout the day.

Apply a moisturizer or hydrating mask if your skin still looks dry and flaky. Before you buy any skin care products, know your skin type: oily or dry. “You want to avoid products that can clog your pores,” just my daughter tells me. “That can lead to acne, and the products we then have to use to treat it can sometimes dry you out even more.” Believe me she is my expert skin care guru.

Don’t forget to take care of your skin and have fun this summer!

Yodelca.