The beach is the one reason we are all here. Visitors and locals alike live or vacation in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Perdido Key, and Gulf Shores for the quartz white sand and gentle emerald waters. But not enough people seem to understand the value of and how to use sunscreen properly. That's why their skin is red like a stop sign when they leave the beach for the day. This misunderstanding results in too many people having uncomfortable sun burns that ache for days and then peel like molting animals. In the following paragraphs, we are going to explain how to use sunscreen.
What Is SPF
Let's start with some basic info. Sunscreen’s purpose is not a mystery; it protects you from the sun. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is the go-to number we look for when looking for sunscreen? The higher SPF the stronger the protection. Low SPF lotions tend to be watery and go on super quickly; while higher SPFs are like trying to rub mashed potatoes into your skin. Keep this in mind when putting lotion on yourself or any kids in your group. Also, to get the most out of your SPF, understanding how much and when to apply is key. A standard shot glass full of cream is the recommended measure to cover an adults entire body. But if you try to lather yourself down with a shot glass full of SPF 70 or higher, you're only going to be frustrated. Start with a small amount in your hand and rub it into place. You will be able to get a sense of how easily it went on and how far that small amount went. Be sure to cover your entire body except for the face and any parts that will absolutely not see the sun. For your face? A nickel-sized amount of face specific formula should do the trick. We typically use zinc bars (more on zinc later). But keep in mind that one application is not enough to last the whole day. Reapply a fresh coat every two hours, and after a dip in the surf, is essential to keep your sweet meat from getting fried.
Let it Dry
The number one rule of sunscreen is to let it dry. So, an ideal application setting is not under the blazing sun where your sweat or the Gulf water will wash it away. Cool, dry skin is best for the first application of the day. Inside your vacation rental is not the best spot for this to go down either. Avoid having to explain to the owner of your vacation rental why his or her couch looks like the greasy inside of a hotdog package. For best results (and good karma), apply your first coat of sunscreen in a shady spot outside of your car, home, or condo. Subsequent coats should be applied about every two hours or after a decent amount of time in the water. We recommend applying sunscreen from a seated position on a towel under one of our umbrellas. Spread out under our umbrella's six foot canopies and lather that white gold back onto your skin while the surf laps onto the shore. Understanding how to use sunscreen can help prevent uncomfortable burns or other potential health issues.
What's In This Stuff?
Growing up along the coast, I remember in movies and along the beach seeing lifeguards with "white stuff" on the bridges of their noses. I always thought it was just regular sunscreen that was never rubbed in - but it wasn't. It was zinc oxide. Zinc oxide is a more natural approach to sun protection and uses minerals to reflect the sun's rays. Zinc and other mineral based sunscreens avoid chemicals like oxybenzone or octinoxate which cause coral reef bleaching and are related to several health issues in people. These (and other less harmful) chemical based sunscreens absorb the UV rays and then wash or wear off. Both mineral and chemical products protect the person who wears them from the sun if they understand how to use sunscreen and apply correctly. Pick whichever you like, but remember to apply them properly.
Stay Hydrated (With Water)
The gentle beach breeze can feel like a godsend on really hot summer days. But did you know that the salty Gulf breeze can actually rob your body of moisture? The combination of heat, sun, and salty ocean breezes can quickly lead to dehydration, making it essential to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Yes, we know there is water in beer BUT there is more water in ... water. Drinking alcohol is great when done in the right setting - and the beach is a great setting as long as it is coupled with a good amount of high quality H2O. Staying hydrated helps maintain your energy levels, supports vital bodily functions, and aids in keeping your skin resilient against the drying effects of the sun and saltwater. By prioritizing both sunscreen application and adequate water intake, you're not just investing in a day's worth of fun at the beach but also in your long-term health and well-being.
Put a Shirt On
One of the most underrated things you can do to ensure that you are not overexposed to UV rays is to wear a shirt. It's not unheard of to cover up with a shirt - especially if you've been at the beach all day or all week. You can find light weight shirts that wick away sweat and provide substantial protection from the sun. Knowing how to use sunscreen is also about knowing when you've had enough sun and need a little extra help to stay comfortable and healthy.
In Closing
We at Excel Beach Service want your vacation (and your staycation) at the beach to be incredible. Too many lobster red families leave the sugar white sands every single day, and we cringe to think of the pain in store for those folks that don't take the necessary precautions. We are here to help offer professional beach service along the coast from Santa Rosa Beach to Destin, and Perdido Key to Gulf Shores. We hope that this gives someone the information necessary to understand how use sunscreen better and prevents them from unnecessary discomfort.