How to Choose a Sunscreen for Outdoor Activities

Many have gotten used to the fact that sunscreen should be worn at the beach and pool, but most people forget that they should wear sunscreen for many other outdoor activities. Whether you're riding a roller coaster or skiing down a mountain, choose the appropriate protection from the sun.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Select a sunscreen appropriate for all kinds of weather, even on cloudy days and in the winter. On an overcast day, UV rays are still able to penetrate through the haze of fog or clouds. You might not need as much protection during such times, but it is still recommended to wear a minimum-protection sunscreen, which has an SPF of 15.
2. Buy a super-strength formula that is 45 times stronger than the skin's own protection when the UV index is high. The UV index is a scale of how powerful the ultraviolet radiation from the sun is on a particular day. Those with highly sensitive skin should choose a sunscreen with an SPF like 50 or 60 during the peak sun index.
3. Choose a waterproof and greaseless product if you work on a road crew or in the construction field. A sweat-resistant, quick-drying sunscreen formula will prevent hands and tools from getting slippery. Some are sold in plastic tubes that hang on tool belts or packs that fit into pockets.
4. Account for the reflective properties of the sun while enjoying outdoor activities. The reflections of the sun from water, snow and sand can enhance your UV exposure. Choose a good sports sunscreen, such as one by BullFrog, that will block the additional blister of the sun while you are sunbathing and water or snow skiing.
5. Choose a sports sunscreen. These products won't sting your eyes while you're sweating during strenuous outdoor activities, such as running or playing tennis. Look for ultra-dry, high-performance strength descriptions on the bottles.

Tips & Warnings

• Get a few travel-size sunscreens to slip into golf bags, ski jackets and backpacks.
• For extra protection during all your outdoor activities, get a combination insect repellent and SPF spray that is not oily and has long-lasting properties.
• Protect yourself if you work outdoors. Some primary areas outdoor workers forget to cover up include their necks, hands, ears and the backs of their arms. You can find guidelines and research for protecting yourself while working outside at the Skin Cancer Foundation site (see Resources below).