Sun Smarts

It’s that time of year again. As summer layoffs start and temperatures rise, take advantage of a yoga class in the park or catch an outdoor dance concert. It’s a great chance to get some of the vitamin D you may have missed out on during colder weather. In fact, a recent study showed that ballet dancers were at risk for vitamin D deficiencies during the winter due to all the time spent inside. But in the summer, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting the D you need. Just 5 to 30 minutes of midday sun exposure twice weekly will do the trick.

 

But what should you keep in mind about sun protection before you step outside?

 

Lather up:
Apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before going outdoors.

 

Cover up:
Pack a sun hat in your bag and opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothes.

 

Seek shade:
If you’re outside when the sun is at its strongest and highest overhead—usually from 10am to 4pm—take breaks in the shade.

 

Reapply:
If you’re exercising outside for long periods, slather on some more sunscreen after an hour.