In the cold months, I have a tendency to become pale in comparison to what I look like during the warm months. And I really enjoy laying out by the pool or just simply being outdoors and catching some rays.

But, I am guilty of not using a strong enough sunscreen or even sunblock. Although I will brown in the following days, I can burn very easily at first exposure to the sun right around the shoulder and neck area. Thus, I am talking about how to care for my skin while exposed to the sunlight.

Although I knew that being fair-skinned puts you at greater risk for sunburn, I did not know, however, that being light-eyed would do the same. Have you ever heard of this?

As I stated earlier, I am guilty of using too low of a level of sunscreen or not using any at all. I’m also guilty of not applying any to my face and rotating my time in the sun with a hat. And I am well aware that those pesky ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays (UVA and UVB rays) can damage my skin no matter what – even if I don’t get a sunburn. And a tan is the body’s attempt to merely protect itself from the sun’s harmful rays. This weekend I used a 12 sunscreen but I’m thinking it was not strong enough since I am a bit on the red side.

So what can you do to prevent damage to your skin caused by too much exposure from the Sun? Let’s take a look at some of the suggested tips:

• From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. you should avoid the sun since this is when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
• Never go to a tanning salon or use a tanning bed.
• Wear proper clothing and use a hat whenever you go outside.
• Purchase and wear sunglasses that block at least 99% of UVA sunlight.
• Give yourself a body check for unusual changes in skin every month or see a certified Dermatologist yearly.

Stay informed by reading the full article!

Are you fair-skinned and light-eyed? Does this give you caution? What is your preferred level of sunscreen or sunblock protection? 12? 35?