Chances are, you’ve heard about the damage that the sun can do. If you haven’t, you must have been living under a rock and in that case, you need not worry about sun damage! Despite all the warnings we are subjected to on a regular basis, many think that utilizing sun protection is only for those hot and sunny days. This is wrong and can lead to serious skin problems later on. In fact, the sun rays on a winter day and on a cloudy day still possess a threat. Now, we don’t want to sound like Mom and scold anyone for not lathering in sunscreen but we can provide some more information on the importance of sun protection year round.

Fall/Winter

We hate to break it to you, but you’re not just trying to protect yourself from one set of UV rays but two: UVA and UVB. First the good news: You only have to worry about UVA in the winter months and not UVB. You see, UVA is around as long as there is sunlight and is at the same level all year round. When the earth rotates and tilts away from the sun, we experience winter, and the UVB is less intense as some of it barely reaches the surface. UVB is responsible for that golden tan we all love in the summer months and since it’s lacking in the winter, you can’t really get a suntan. Now the bad news: UVA rays have a longer wavelength and are able to penetrate deeper into the skin, thus causing more damage.

Options:

• SunBum Suncare. These guys know their stuff and create a bunch of products that fit with your lifestyle.
• Airhole Facemask. What’s covered up doesn’t get touched by the sun!

Spring/Summer

It’s really no surprise that the summer sun can hurt your skin and since the sun is at its closest point to the earth,  both those pesky UVB and UVA rays are hitting home. You may be able to get a nice tan but you’re also subject to more damage. What’s more, the rays of the summer sun, high in the sky, arrive at a steep angle and heat the land (and your skin!) much more than those of the winter sun, which hit at a shallow angle. All the more reason to play it safe.

Options:

• Use the whole range of SunBum Suncare products. Their lines are formulated to protect against both types of UV rays, not just one.
• Throw on a hat. The RipCurl sunhats are a great option or a Herschel SnapBack.

Don’t be afraid of the sun, just be wise. When heading out on your next adventure, make sure to pack the appropriate sun protection. Still not sure what gear you can use to minimize the impact of the suns rays? Ask one of our staff at McCoo’s!