Summer survival tips for redheads
As the summer sun beckons most of humanity outdoors, we wouldn’t blame you redheads for wanting to hide away in the shade and the sun safety of your home. Nevertheless, we’ll be expected to go outside at some point, so it’s crucial for us to arm ourselves with the right defences.
While sunny days expect to bring plenty of opportunities for fun, they also pose a challenge for those of us with fair complexions and fiery locks.
Here’s our guide to navigating the summer season as a redhead:
1. Choose the right high-SPF sunscreen
Sunscreen is your best friend. Always and forever. But did you know that not all sunscreens are created equal? Make sure you choose one with broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of 30 or higher, and look for formulas that are specifically designed for sensitive or fair skin. Mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are gentle yet effective options for redheads, but remember that these have other guidelines for wear, use and reapplication. Read more about mineral sunscreen vs chemical sunscreen
2. Reapply regularly (much more often than you think)
Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you’ve been swimming or sweating. Fair redheads are much more prone to sunburn, so it’s essential to stay vigilant about sun protection throughout the day, especially during peak sun hours between 11am and 3pm.
3. Cover up
Wearing protective clothing can provide an extra layer of defence against the sun’s rays. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses are all must-have accessories for redhead summer outings, but there is even UPF clothing that provides additional sun protection, such as Noma Swimwear.
4. Seek shade
When possible, seek out shady spots to escape the sun’s intense rays. Whether it’s relaxing under a beach umbrella or taking refuge beneath a leafy tree, spending time in the shade can help reduce your overall sun exposure and lower your risk of sunburn.
5. Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out and prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate sun damage.
6. Treat sunburns promptly and protect burns as much as possible
Despite your best efforts, sunburns can still happen. Take immediate action to soothe and heal your skin, using cool compresses, aloe vera gel, and gentle moisturisers to help alleviate discomfort and promote healing. Speak to a pharmacist for guidance on what might be best to use.
7. Don’t forget your lips and scalp
These two areas are so easily overlooked when applying sunscreen. Use a lip balm with SPF protection and wear a wide-brimmed hat or use a scalp sunscreen spray to protect your scalp from sunburn.
8. Regular skin checks
Lastly, make a habit of regularly checking your skin for any changes or abnormalities, such as new moles or freckles, as well as signs of sun damage, such as sunspots or wrinkles. Early detection is key when it comes to skin cancer, so be proactive about monitoring your skin health. This point is something that should be done year-round – not just in summer.