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Guest Post by Rachel Cool

Most people only think about UV protection during the summer months, but the sun shines all throughout the year. Even on a cloudy day in the middle of winter, you can get sunburn from being outside too long. Your skin needs some sunlight to stay plump and vibrant, but it can easily be damaged by over-exposure. It’s best for you to instill a protection plan early on. Here are some simple but effective ways to protect your skin from sun rays.

Use Sunscreen
Many people fear the idea of wearing sun lotions on a regular basis because they don’t want to smell like Coppertone all day long. That’s perfectly understandable, but it’s a slightly irrational fear. You don’t have to use the bright white creams to provide minimal protection for your skin. In fact, you can buy makeup products with SPF built right in. Then all you have to do is put on your makeup like normal, and you’ll have great looking skin that is already shielded.

Wear Oversized Sunglasses
If you’re going to wear sunglasses, try to get the ones that are really big and round. Not only are those in style right now, but they are actually good for your skin. These huge spectacles cover the area under your eyes, so you don’t have to worry about sun rays hitting you right where your dark spots might form. As long as you find a pair that works with your face, you should look fabulously protected from the sun.

Take Indoor Breaks
If you have to be outside for long periods of time, try to come in every once and a while for a break. This isn’t to say that you have to hermit yourself from the rest of society, but you should try to moderate the time you spend outdoors. The longer you’re outside, the more sun protection product you will need to keep your skin safe. Unless you want to wear long sleeves all the time, it may just be best to run inside.

The sun is going to get you when you least expect it. UV rays can bounce off the snow and peak through vicious clouds. Never assume that it’s safe to go outside without protection. Once you get in the habit of shielding your skin, you will wonder why you ever acted otherwise. Hopefully your skin will reward you after that.

About the Author: Rachel Cool is a long-term sufferer of chicken skin, a condition that makes the surface look scaly and rough. On top of the tips above, she uses a Riiviva keratosis pilaris device to keep her skin silky smooth.