Protecting Yourself from the Sun’s Harmful UV Rays

Relaxing around your backyard swimming pool while enjoying the sun’s warming rays is one of life’s genuine pleasures. But like anything else, too much of a good thing can be bad for you.

Overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause uncomfortable sunburn. And eventually it can even lead to the development of skin cancer in some people.

Yet sunbathing in moderation is likely safe, as long as you use a few sensible safety measures.

Pool Service Pompano Beach — Dress for Success

Limit your exposure to direct sunlight, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.

When not swimming in the pool, protect your skin by wearing dark-colored clothing that is tightly woven. The sun’s UV rays will bounce off concrete, water, and other surfaces, so simply being in the shade is often not enough to provide full protection.

Even when you are in the pool, it’s a good idea to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

Pool Service Pompano Beach — Sunscreens Can Help

Whenever you use your pool, apply a sunscreen with a SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15 or higher. Look for sunscreens that provide a broad spectrum protection factor, which means they protect against bot UVB and UVA rays. Sunscreens with ingredients like Avobenzone, also known as Parsol 1789, and zinc oxide are ideal.

Children’s skin can be more sensitive to the sun’s rays. So for kids, use a more powerful sunscreen, such as one with a SPF of 30 or higher.

Pool Service Pompano Beach — Reapply Frequently

Apply sunscreen before leaving your house and make sure you reapply it to both yourself and your children frequently. If you are going in the water, you probably want to use a waterproof sunscreen as well so it doesn’t wash off the moment you jump in.

Reapply y9our sunscreen after you get out of the pool, perspiring, or toweling off.