July 2024
Content personally sourced/created by Melissa Erickson, Real Estate Broker
Sunscreen is your best defense against the harmful effects of UV radiation, but with so many options available, picking the right one can be daunting. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed choice:
**1. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) Rating:**
- SPF indicates how well the sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. SPF 30 filters out 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 filters out 98%.
**2. Broad Spectrum Protection:**
- Look for sunscreens labeled as "broad spectrum," which protect against both UVB and UVA rays. UVA rays contribute to skin aging and can penetrate glass, so broad spectrum protection is essential.
**3. Water Resistance:**
- If you'll be swimming or sweating, opt for a water-resistant sunscreen. Keep in mind that even water-resistant sunscreens need to be reapplied every 40 to 80 minutes depending on the product, after swimming or sweating.
**4. Skin Type:**
- Consider your skin type and any specific concerns. For oily or acne-prone skin, choose oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas. If you have sensitive skin, look for mineral sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
**5. Ingredients to Avoid:**
- Check for potentially harmful ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can harm coral reefs. Instead, opt for mineral sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are reef-safe.
**6. Application and Reapplication:**
- Apply sunscreen generously 15 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to absorb into the skin. Reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating, to maintain protection.
**7. Consider Additional Features:**
- Some sunscreens come with additional features such as antioxidants or moisturizers, which can offer added benefits for your skin.
Summer Guide to SPF Numbers
**8. Expiration Date:**
- Check the expiration date on your sunscreen. Expired sunscreen may not provide adequate protection.
**9. Personal Preference:**
- Choose a sunscreen that you enjoy using. Whether it's a spray, lotion, gel, or stick, find one that fits your lifestyle and makes reapplication easier.
By selecting the right sunscreen and using it correctly, you can protect your skin from sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Remember, sunscreen is just one part of sun protection—also wear protective clothing, seek shade, and avoid peak sun hours whenever possible. Taking these steps will help you enjoy the sun safely while keeping your skin healthy for years to come.
Unleashing Your Creativity Under the Sun
Summer DIY projects offer not only a chance to enhance your surroundings but also to bond with loved ones, express your creativity, and learn valuable skills. Whether you're tackling a large-scale renovation or enjoying simple crafts with the family, embrace the season of sunshine and let your imagination soar. With a bit of planning and enthusiasm, your summer can be filled with memorable DIY adventures that leave a lasting impact.
- Summer DIY Projects: Unleashing Your Creativity Under the SunAs the temperature rises and days lengthen, summer presents the perfect opportunity to embark on DIY projects that unleash your creativity and enhance your surroundings. Whether you're sprucing up your home, garden, or looking for fun activities with the family, here are some inspiring ideas to get you started:**1. Outdoor Oasis:**
- Transform your outdoor space into a relaxing oasis with DIY projects like building a pergola, creating a cozy seating area with homemade benches or pallet furniture, or hanging string lights for a magical ambiance after sunset.**2. Garden Delights:**
- Green thumbs can rejoice with garden DIYs such as building raised beds for vegetables or flowers, crafting colorful planters from recycled materials, or installing a drip irrigation system to keep your plants hydrated during the summer heat.**3. Refreshing Upgrades:**
- Beat the heat indoors by making your own popsicles with fresh fruits, crafting personalized fans or misters for outdoor comfort, or sewing lightweight curtains or pillow covers to give rooms a breezy summer vibe.**4. Creative Crafts:**
- Dive into arts and crafts with projects like creating your own beach-inspired décor such as seashell candles or driftwood art, designing custom tote bags or t-shirts with tie-dye or fabric painting, or making DIY sunscreen or lip balm using natural ingredients.
- **5. Upcycling Adventures:**
- Reduce waste and unleash your creativity by upcycling old items into new treasures. Turn mason jars into lanterns or herb planters, repurpose wooden pallets into a chic outdoor table, or breathe new life into worn furniture with a fresh coat of paint.**6. Fun for Kids:**
- Keep little ones entertained with kid-friendly DIYs like building a backyard obstacle course, creating sidewalk chalk masterpieces, making bird feeders or insect hotels to attract wildlife, or crafting homemade playdough or slime for endless summer fun.**7. Home Improvement Projects:**
- Tackle home improvement tasks such as painting rooms in refreshing summer hues, installing energy-efficient window treatments to keep interiors cool, or organizing closets and storage areas to declutter and maximize space.**8. Learn Something New:**
- Summer is a great time to learn new skills through DIY projects. Try your hand at woodworking, learn basic plumbing or electrical repairs, experiment with gardening techniques like composting or vertical gardening, or explore the art of photography with outdoor photo shoots.**9. Community Spirit:**
- Engage with your community by participating in DIY projects that benefit others, such as volunteering to paint a community mural, organizing a neighborhood cleanup, or crafting handmade gifts for local charity drives or fundraisers.
Summer Self-Care Tips
Establishing healthy summer routines is crucial for maintaining well-being and enjoying the season to the fullest. Start your mornings with a refreshing workout or yoga session outdoors to energize your body and mind.
Hydration is key during warmer months, so keep a water bottle handy and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables into your meals for a boost of vitamins and antioxidants, and consider grilling lean proteins like fish or chicken for lighter, nutritious dinners.
Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen regularly and seeking shade during peak hours. Finally, unwind in the evenings with relaxing activities such as reading outdoors, practicing mindfulness or enjoying a leisurely stroll to promote restful sleep.
By prioritizing these habits, you can embrace a healthy lifestyle that enhances your summer experience.
