|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Run with the sun: an athlete's guide to sun protection  |
| |
 (ARA) - Sunshine season is at its peak, propelling sport enthusiasts across the nation to open their doors to nature's playground. To many, warm weather means beachy days and maximizing performance from the pavement to the pool. But while athletes everywhere rejoice outside, sun protection often becomes a distant memory.
Before heading out to play, it's critical to bring the right gear for your sport ... and for your skin. Participating in outdoor activities this summer can cause an increased vulnerability to the sun's ultraviolet rays. Athletes may forget to reapply sunscreen when caught up in the action, and may be left with an uncomfortable sunburn or potential long-term skin damage.
No need to sweat, outdoor lovers; there are ways to stay in the zone and help protect yourself this season. Dr. Elizabeth K. Hale, clinical associate professor of dermatology at New York University School of Medicine and consultant to the makers of Coppertone has these skin-survival tips:
* Be water-resilient. Make sure you choose a sunscreen that is durable enough to work as hard as you do. To help protect yourself, try a high performance formula that works great on wet or dry skin, like Coppertone Sport Continuous Spray SPF 30: when you're wet, it resists water for 80 minutes, and when you sweat, it's ultra sweatproof, so it won't run into your eyes and sting or get in the way of your game. Parents and kids alike are always on-the-go, so look for continuous sprays to help make reapplication a snap - and remember to reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.
* Don't forget to hydrate. Drinking water while working out in the sun will help keep your body and skin hydrated, especially if you're sweating. Put your water bottle in the freezer the night before and slip it into your bag for a cool treat to truly beat the heat.
* Utilize technology. Coppertone's MyUVAlert iPhone App is a helpful tool for athletes who are constantly on the move, but who may forget to reapply. Its custom reapplication reminders and personal profiles can help you stay sun safe during your most intense workout. And if you don't know where to bring your game, the new Outdoor Activity Finder maps out the closest recreational spots - from sand volleyball courts to bike paths.
* Keep yourself covered. Wear sun protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses and head for shade during midday heat whenever possible. When choosing a sunscreen, remember that all Coppertone products with an SPF of 15 or greater in stores today meet the FDA's newly announced 2012 standard for "broad spectrum" protection.
For more information on the Coppertone MyUVAlert app and other sun protection tips, visit Coppertone.com.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|