What Are Your Best Tips for Avoiding Sunlight?

Being informed and aware of sunny days is very helpful to ensure that you are feeling your best! It is always a safe bet to check the weather on your smartphone, or television, for those who are able. As a past athlete (sprinter), who had difficulties with the sun personally, I always carry around an umbrella with me in my bookbag. Establishing your daily and weekly routine in advance, and trying to plan is another significant step in staying protected against too much UV exposure. Keeping a mental note of friendly locations like local parks with ample tree coverage, supermarkets, and free-libraries are neutral locations when you are far from home. When all else fails, make sure to pack with you a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has a high SPF rating (over 30) is excellent!

Remember to always consult your medical doctor/specialist with your challenges with sunlight.

-Lawrence (Lupus.net Team)

First, choose the right clothes. You can wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, with tightly-woven fabric. Consider wearing sunglasses with UV protection, and/or a wide-brimmed hat.

Second, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF30, even if you don’t plan on being outside long. Don’t forget sensitive areas such as the front and back of your ears, the back of your hands, the top of your feet, and your hairline. Try a lip balm with SPF15 or higher to protect your lips.

Some other things you can do are find shade, avoid the strongest sun between 10 a.m and 4 p.m., and consider using low-watt bulbs indoors. Learn about more tips here.

Overall, it’s important to talk to your doctor before using any over-the-counter product.

– Sam, Lupus.net Team