Yes, and oh boy, summer is officially and really here with a vengeance. It is hot and that’s a fact. Personally, I absolutely love these long hot summer days and even more, I love the long warm summer evenings. Ooops, I am reading in many articles and magazines that summer can be extremely unhealthy and we need to watch out for many awful things-how can that be?

Well, to tell you the truth, both statements are true. Summer is fabulous and to my mind it is the best time of the year. But, there are things one must do to retain that healthy life style we all value and deserve. Most of the things I will share with you this month are common sense, but I do have a few new things that I think are important. There always seems to be new research out about things that we thought were good to go so let’s look at a few updates.

First I think we all must have read recent finds about the strength of different strengths of sun screen. It used to be that the higher the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) the more actual protection one would receive from the damaging ultra-violet rays that are believed to cause different forms of skin cancer. Now research has shown, and I have read this recently in three different places, that $$$ spent for that high number, 50 and up, is not good value. In actual fact, a factor of thirty blocks 97% of UV rays while a factor of fifty blocks 98%. To me that does not seem like much bang for your buck. Good Housekeeping also rates the No Ad brand higher than many of the more expensive ones. Hmmmm?

Another sun protection tip is to be sure you use tons of sun screen. Really slather yourself up. It is very important. Also, be absolutely sure that you have covered everyplace that the sun can reach. I have a friend who just got back from Hawaii and had third degree burns on the tops of his feet. You could clearly see the sandal lines where he had not applied sun screen to the tops of his feet. If you are a snorkeler, be sure to put sun screen on your back even if you are wearing a T-shirt. The back of your neck just above your T-shirt line, you know that little bump sort of place, also must be done. Again, get everyplace that is exposed, and you know what I mean. The Bull Frog lotion that also has insect repellent in it is great.

Legend has it that people with blonde or red hair and very fair skin burn easily and are more prone to skin cancers, and yes, this one is true. You know who you are and I am sure you know to be extra careful. Other skin types are susceptible in addition to the fairer types. I am part Native American and have olive skin and I need to watch it. Also, African American skin burns just as severely as all others.  Remember too that there is no such thing as waterproof lotion. It comes off. Believe it. It also comes off more quickly and easily in salt water than in chlorinated water so watch it at the beach. They say that every two hours is about right even if you do not go into the water. Who knew? Here is some new news too-There is no such thing as a “base tan.” You know, that first browning look that will keep you from burning-no, no-not true.

Finally, we all know that it is a good thing to keep hydrated. This is more of a fact now that ever before as it turns out. That eight glasses of water versus the drink when you are thirsty does not apply in the summer especially if you are out and about or at the beach. Water is always around and available and usually I am all for the most natural and easiest solution, but in this case I am going to diverge a bit. Drinks like Gator Aide with electrolytes are a good bet. Also green tea, bottled types of teas and sports drinks, and yes, even sweet tea can not only keep you hydrated, but keep your skin more supple and less apt to burn. Keep an ice chest with you at the pool or at the beach. The extra trouble is well worth it. Oh, by the way, you notice I did not include sweetened sodas in the “drink it” list.

So, summer is here big time and let’s all enjoy it as much as we can. If you do get that sun burn, remember NOT to apply things like heavy lotions or Vaseline type products. These only keep the burn in and increase the pain. Try a cool Epsom salts bath or Aloe in the pure form. Your skin is the largest organ in your body. It is also very vulnerable. Get into the habit of protecting yourself-Love, Judith