Here at Westminster Suncoast’s independent living facilities in St. Petersburg, we love our share of spring sunshine. After all, the name of our community comes from the local moniker for our slice of Florida — a gorgeous Gulf Coast paradise characterized by dazzling white-sand beaches and blue horizons that match the crisp hue of the sunny sky above.
With all that being said, it’s important to protect your skin from those sunny rays — especially as we head into Daylight Saving Time, and you might be preparing to spend even more time outside than usual. Fortunately, there are many great ways to cover up while still enjoying outdoor time, whether you’re swimming in our on-site heated pool or simply exploring the gorgeous grounds.
Here are a few of our trusted go-tos!
Start With Sunscreen
Slathering on the sunscreen may seem like an obvious step — but it’s a worthwhile reminder, given all the sunshine we experience here in Florida! Once you’ve chosen a sunscreen that meets all dermatological guidelines, apply it anywhere you might get sun exposure — including easy-to-forget places like your ears and hands.
Let your sunscreen dry before heading outside or jumping in the pool. (This should take about 15 to 20 minutes.) Just as important as applying your sunscreen at the start of your day, however, is reapplying it throughout — at intervals of 2 hours, and more frequently if you’re spending time in the H2O.
On that note…
Bring Some SPF For The Road
Even the most prepared outdoors explorer might forget to reapply throughout the day. To avoid running into sunburn on the road, simply pick up a travel size of your favorite SPF product and bring it along for your adventures!
Clothing Counts, Too
While you should always sport a “base layer” of SPF, you can supplement your sun protection with specially made UV clothing.
Don’t Forget To Accessorize
Accessorizing is another great way to bolster your sun protection this spring! A trusty wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses can help you navigate your outdoor time in practical comfort.
Enjoy Some Shade
You’ll find plenty of umbrellas throughout the outdoor oasis that is Westminster Suncoast — so feel free to use them to add some cool comfort to your picnic or pool day.
Switch Up Your Routine
One of the best ways to protect yourself from the sun this spring is to simply reconsider your routine. The sun’s rays are strongest in the hours building up to and following midday — approximately 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — so whenever possible, plan your outdoor time outside of this window. You should still follow the above sun protection tips whether venturing out at 8 a.m. or 5 p.m., of course, but you can take comfort in the fact that rays aren’t quite as strong at these “off-peak” times.
Take Rest & Hydration Breaks
It’s important to take rest and hydration breaks when spending any amount of time outside — but it’s especially essential on hot, sunny days when you’re likely sweating, tired, and more prone to dehydration and other physical stressors.
We hope that today’s brief guide gives you some helpful tips on how to safely enjoy the sunshine, this spring and all year. Because, well, let’s face it — Florida’s bright and balmy weather means you’ll be spending plenty of time outdoors throughout the seasons.
