Hawaii is the only state where the sun passes directly overhead in summer. Have fun under our tropical sun but be sure to exercise caution. Here are some tips and ideas to help you protect your skin.
A. Check out the Skin Deep database from EWG.
Find the sunscreen that’s best for you. You’ll be surprised by their best and worst recommendations. Consider one of their top 5 picks all of which are SPF 30:
1. California Baby Sunblock Stick No Fragrance
2. Badger Sunscreen
3. California Baby Sunblock Stick Everyday/Year-Round
4. Keys Soap Solar RX Therapeutic Sunblock
5. Trukid Sunny Days Facestick Mineral Sunscreen
B. Protect the coral.
If you’re going to be around coral, it’s important to use a physical barrier sunscreen which all of the above are. The UV blocking agents in chemical sunscreens can damage coral.
C. Our best practices.
- Zinc or titanium oxide based sunscreens are the best and safest.
- Use enough sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours.
- Reduce direct sun exposure from 10-4.
- Keiki (children) are even more at risk.
- Don’t forget protection for your lips and ears.
- Wear a hat. Protect your eyes with good sunglasses.
- Sunscreen older than 2 years should not be used.
- Drink lots of water daily, as you’ll be perspiring more. Experts suggest 1/2 your weight in pounds, converted to ounces (160 lbs=80 ounces).
If you have any other tips for staying safe under the sun, please add your comment.
Hope many Hawaii visitors find your recommendations to protect themselves from our strong Hawaii sun. It feels so good. People easily forget about the danger of it.
Reapply sunscreen, even if it says waterproof is a big must!
I also noticed that staying out of the sun during lunch time is a tough one for many visitors, especially when they come visit during the winter months from cold states.
Makes sense that they want to catch as much sun as they can. We do understand! However, it’s not a good idea for their skin health and their kids’ health!
Have a great Hawaii vacation. Aloha, Pua