While sunscreen is a popular and essential barrier against damaging UV radiation, there are other ways to keep your skin safe. Many people are aware that extended sun exposure can cause wrinkles, age spots and an increased risk of skin cancer, sensitive skin types may find sunscreen to be bothersome or irritating at times. There are several different strategies to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
You can improve your skin protection in methods that supplement or even replace sunscreen such as by implementing physical barriers or forming particular lifestyle choices. Here are 5 effective ways to shield your skin from harmful UV rays without sunscreen.
Ways To Protect Skin From UV Rays
Protective Clothing
Select materials with tight weaves such as canvas, denim or specific UV-blocking apparel made to protect your skin. Wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts and trousers are all great choices for protecting delicate parts of your body like your face, arms and legs.
Shade
Seeking shade is a simple yet highly effective strategy to minimise UV exposure, particularly during the sun’s peak hours from 10 am to 4 pm.
UV Blocking Ingredients
Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E that are commonly found in natural skincare products can also help fight the oxidative damage caused by UV exposure.
Strategise
The timing of your sun exposure plays a significant role in how much UV radiation your skin absorbs. While it is important to get some sunlight for vitamin D, excessive sun exposure can lead to lasting skin damage.
UV Protecting Foods
A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals can improve your skin’s resilience to the sun. Foods like tomatoes, carrots, spinach and berries contain compounds that protect the skin from harmful UV rays and combat premature ageing.