It is the season for all outdoor music lovers to embrace. Summer is the time to pack your bags and chairs and head out to spend the day, or several days, in the sun listening to your favorite bands. This extended time in the sun can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and most importantly sunburn and skin damage.
how do i protect my skin at an all-day outdoor event?
Sunscreen is an important line of defense for protecting your skin but it has several limitations for all day events like music festivals or a day at the beach.
Sweat: Sunscreens can be removed by sweat from heat and physical activity. Summer music festivals are prone to both of these issues.
Reapplication: Did you know most sunscreens only protect for 2 hours and are water resistant for only 80 minutes? You must be diligent about reapplication to avoid sunburns.
Inadequate application: Most of us get only half the stated SPF of our sunscreen by applying an insufficient amount. We recommend 1 oz (a shot glass) per application for the body. You need to pack enough sunscreen to last all day!
what else can i do to protect my skin?
The answer to sunscreen failure is protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. These never wear off or need to be reapplied. And they can be a fashion statement!
Glasses: Complete the look with UV protectant large sunglasses. These protect your vision but are also fantastic at protecting the delicate skin around your eyes from UV damage and wrinkles. And they won’t sting your eyes like sunscreen.
Hats: Be sure to select a wide brimmed hat that shields your face and provides shade to your ears and neck. Vented hats are available for those who feel hats are too hot.
Layer: Arms and chests can be covered with lightweight shirts and legs with flowing skirts and pants. Dresses work too and are perfect for dancing!
UPF/SPF clothing: While SPF clothing is great, most tight weave items of clothing will provide excellent protection. After all, how often does your skin burn under your clothing? Hold your shirt up to the sun to see how much light comes through if you are unsure.
Don’t forget to bring the shade!
Chairs: Often festival chairs have built-in shade structures attached.
Umbrellas: Umbrellas are great for protecting against sun and rain. Look for ones with UV protection. Some will even clamp on to your festival chair.
What’s the Vista View?
Remember to apply sunscreen to exposed skin, but remember that the more skin you cover, the better chance of enjoying your festival without damaging your skin. Layering protective hats, clothing and sunglasses adds both form and function to your outdoor event!
about the author
Dr. amy ney
Dr. Amy Ney, MD is a board-certified dermatologist providing expert medical and cosmetic dermatology services in St. Louis, MO.
She is a Castle Connolly Top Doctor.
