After a long winter, I bet you're excited with the prospect of being outdoors more in the coming summer months. However, living in Australia means you have to be cautious of the harsh UV rays, which can pose serious risks to your skin and overall health. Protecting yourself from the sun is important in Australia all year round, but especially so in summer.
Whether you're catching up with a friend for a walk, enjoying a lunchtime bbq in the park with family or spending all day at one of Australia's many gorgeous beaches, we're here to help you be as sun safe as possible. In this blog post, we'll discuss the five best ways to protect yourself from that spicy Australian sun.
1. Spicysols hemp hat: The ultimate sun shield
When it comes to sun protection, a brimmed hat is your best friend. Spicysols hemp hats are made from a blend of hemp and cotton, making them breathable, comfortable and lightweight even on the hottest of days. Not only is hemp fabric one of the most environmentally friendly fabrics, hemp is 99.9% effective at blocking UVA and UVB rays. This means that hemp is rated 50+ UPF and excellent for sun protection. The wide brim of Spicysols hemp hats not only shields your face but also provides protection for your neck and ears. It's stylish, eco-friendly, and you wouldn't want to go an Australian summer without one.
2. Sunscreen: Your daily protection
Sunscreen should be an integral part of your daily routine. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and apply it generously to all exposed skin (bonus points if it's cruelty free and organic). Remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating. Sunscreen acts as a barrier against harmful UV rays, preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
3. Seek shade during peak hours
The sun is at its strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in most parts of Australia. Whenever possible, seek shade during these hours. Trees, beach umbrellas, and covered outdoor areas are your allies in staying sun-safe. If you can't find natural shade, consider bringing your own portable shade, like a beach umbrella or a sun shelter.
4. Protective clothing: cover up smartly
Choosing the right clothing can make a significant difference in your sun protection efforts. Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants that you can easily throw over your bikini. Don't forget to wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays. Sunglasses also protect the sensitive skin around your eyes from premature aging.
5. Stay hydrated and cool
Australia's sun can be unforgiving, and heatstroke can develop in only a couple of minutes. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, like the Spicysols Wide Brim Hemp Hat, to keep your head cool, and consider using a cooling towel or misting spray to lower your body temperature when it gets scorching hot.
We know you love that Aussie sun, but it comes with a responsibility to protect yourself from its potentially harmful effects. By following these five best ways to safeguard yourself from the sun, you can cherish the summer months while looking after your skin and your overall wellbeing. Remember, sun protection isn't a choice; it's a necessity when living is Australia.
Stay sun-safe. Stay Spicy!