How to protect your skin from UV rays when gardening: Stay safe while enjoying your hobby

Gardening can be very beneficial for your mental and physical health, but only if you're careful.

One of the most potentially dangerous things in your garden is UV - it can damage your skin and even cause skin cancer.

Let's learn how to protect yourself.

Wear protective clothing

Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats that shade your face, neck, and ears. 

Apply sunscreen

Before heading out to the garden, generously apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. 

Make sure to cover all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck, ears, and hands. 

Seek shade

If possible, garden in shaded areas, especially during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

Use patio umbrellas, canopies, or create temporary shade structures to shield yourself from direct sunlight.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat

Protect your face, neck, and ears by wearing a wide-brimmed hat that shades these areas. 

Use sunglasses

Wear sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection to shield your eyes and the delicate skin around them from sun damage. 

Use gardening gloves

Not only do gloves protect your hands from scratches and cuts, but they also provide a barrier against UV exposure. 

Stay hydrated

Proper hydration helps maintain skin health and may minimize the impact of sun exposure.

Be aware of reflected sunlight

Remember that UV rays can reflect off surfaces like water, sand, or concrete, increasing your exposure. 
 

• Related news:
• gardening tips
• protection
• sunburn
• sunscreen
• 2 July 2023

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