How To

How to Avoid Sunburn While Exercising

Contributor
By Elizabeth McGuire
eHow Contributing Writer
(5 Ratings)

If you prefer exercising outdoors instead of a gym, remember to take precautions against sunburn. Some fair-skinned people can become sunburned after 15 minutes of sun exposure.

From Quick Guide: A Fit Lifestyle
Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Seek shade and avoid the midday sun, which does the most damage between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

  2. Step 2

    Apply sweat-resistant sunscreen 15 minutes before you head out. Don’t forget your ears and scalp. If lotions make you feel slimy try an aerosol spray sunscreen.

  3. Step 3

    Reapply sunscreen every two hours.

  4. Step 4

    Use a stick sunscreen on your face. Apply liberally above your eyebrows to keep the sweat out of your eyes. (In a pinch, lip balm also works above your eyes.)

  5. Step 5

    Wear a hat or visor to keep the sun off your face.

  6. Step 6

    Apply sunscreen even underneath your shirt. A white cotton T-shirt provides an approximate SPF 7.

  7. Step 7

    Wear clothes made with sun-protective fabrics. The level of protection is denoted by the clothing’s UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). Look for them at athletic stores.

  8. Step 8

    Wash your clothes in a sun-protective laundry soap. The colorless dye can give your clothing an SPF 30.

Tips & Warnings
  • Check your skin regularly for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. Call your doctor if you find changes in birthmarks or moles, or if you have a sore that does not heal.
  • Some people are sensitive to PABA, an ingredient often used in sunscreens. PABA-free varieties are available.
Resources

Comments  

Jimmyclark said

Flag This Comment

on 1/26/2008 Does anyone recommend a good body fat scale that is accurate? I saw a post on thedailyskinny.com that was comparing body fat scales to calipers and it said they weren't as accurate… is that true?

Flag This Comment

on 8/16/2007 Very useful article, especially the SPF information, which I had no idea. Thanks!

Post a Comment

Post a Comment
  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This

Related Ads

Get Free Sports & Fitness Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US

eHow Sports and Fitness
eHow_eHow Sports and Fitness