Saturday Short Subjects: 2012 Tips for Protected Fun in the Sun

For a couple of years now I have compiled and posted some best tips for sun protection. At this time of year, in the northern hemisphere, the sun’s rays are the longest and most powerful. Check out this animated graphic if you need convincing. It is also the season when many people like to spend time outdoors. Unprotected exposure to intense sunlight increases the risk of skin cancer; if you are going to be out in the summer sun, particularly between the hours of 10 in the morning and 2 in the afternoon, you really should take some precautionary measures.

Last year I first reported on the sunscreen research compiled by both GoodGuide and the Environmental Working Group.  Both have updated reports. Here is a link to EWG’s 2012 information and here is one to GoodGuide’s. GoodGuide is also available as a free app for Android and iPhone. Just scan a product barcode, and, if it is in the GoodGuide database, you will get a rating instantly (well, pretty darn quick anyway).

The year before I shared some information on good sun hats. I have since discovered another great company for protective headgear of the UPF (Ultraviolet Protector Factor) kind — Outdoor Research, a Seattle-based company founded by a survivor of a nearly-tragic incident on Alaska’s Denali. Outdoor Research manufactures 35 sun hats, most in the $30 range, topping out at $65. Most, if not all, are made in the USA and a few are somewhat stylish, even sporty. All come with an “Infinite Guarantee.” They can be found in EMS stores and other outdoor outfitters including TrailBlazer, as well as online. 

Here’s wishing you a safe and happy holiday…

Why Saturday Short Subjects? Some readers may recall  being dropped at the movie theater for the Saturday matinee — two action-packed feature films with a series of short subjects (cartoons or short movies, sometimes a serial cliffhanger) sandwiched in between. Often the short subjects were the most memorable, and enjoyable, part of the morning. That explains the name. The reason behind these particular posts is that we are all short on time. My Short Subject posts should not take me as long to write or you as long to read (or try).