Summer Sun Protection

Summer is a time for fun and outdoor activities, but itâ€™s also a season where sun protection becomes crucial. With the intense heat and strong UV rays, itâ€™s important to take the necessary precautions to protect your skin and eyes from potential sun damage. In this article, we will discuss the importance of sun protection and provide tips on how to stay safe under the summer sun.

The Dangers of Unprotected Sun Exposure

The sun emits two types of UV rays â€“ UVA and UVB. UVA rays are responsible for causing premature aging, while UVB rays are responsible for producing sunburns. Exposure to both types of rays can increase your risk of skin cancer. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, over 5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year.

In addition to skin cancer, prolonged sun exposure can also lead to other skin issues such as sunburns, dark spots, and wrinkles. It can also cause eye damage, including cataracts and macular degeneration. This is why sun protection should not be taken lightly and should be a top priority during the summer months.

The Basics of Sun Protection

Now that we understand the dangers of unprotected sun exposure, letâ€™s discuss the basics of sun protection. The following are essential steps to incorporate into your summer routine:

1. Apply Sunscreen

The most important step to protect your skin from the sunâ€™s harmful rays is to apply sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 or higher. Apply it generously to all exposed areas of your body, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Reapply every two hours, especially if you are sweating or swimming.

2. Seek Shade

Whenever possible, seek shade during the peak hours of sunlight between 10am and 4pm. This is when the sunâ€™s rays are strongest, and the risks of sun damage are highest. If you are planning on spending a day at the beach, bring along an umbrella or set up your towel under a shaded area.

3. Wear Protective Clothing

Covering up with clothing is another great way to protect your skin from the sun. Choose lightweight, loose-fitting fabrics that cover most of your body. Darker colors tend to offer more sun protection than lighter colors. Donâ€™t forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.

4. Protect Your Lips

Many people often forget to protect their lips from the sun, but they are just as susceptible to sun damage as the rest of your skin. Apply a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher to keep your lips hydrated and protected.

Tips for Staying Safe in the Sun

In addition to the basics of sun protection, here are a few more tips to help you stay safe under the summer sun:

1. Stay Hydrated

The summer heat and sun exposure can dehydrate your body quickly. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. This will not only keep your body functioning properly but will also help your skin stay moisturized.

2. Wear Sunglasses

Your eyes are just as vulnerable to sun damage as your skin. Make sure to wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection to keep your eyes safe and prevent potential eye issues.

3. Avoid Tanning Beds

Tanning beds may give you a bronzed glow, but they are not a safe alternative to sun exposure. The UV rays emitted from tanning beds can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. Avoid tanning beds altogether.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sun protection is crucial during the summertime to prevent potential skin damage and health issues. By following the basics of sun protection and incorporating these tips into your routine, you can enjoy the summer sun without putting your health at risk. Remember, the sunâ€™s rays can be harmful even on cloudy or overcast days, so make sure to stay protected every time you step outside.

Sun City Tour Maastricht Plans

Highlights Tour 90 minutes: During this tour our guide will show you the Onze Lieve Vrouweplein, the Stokstraat Quarter (exclusive shopping area), Sint Servaas bridge and see from that bridge the government building where they signed the famous Maastricht treaty, Market square with the town hall, the main square Vrijthof.

Highlights Tour 2 hours: Our guide will take you to the both sides of the Maas river, that divides this town. The tour covers the Onze Lieve Vrouweplein, Jeker Quarter, the Bisschopsmolen (water mill), a small part of the city walls and Helpoort (city gate), cross the Maas river via the Hoge Brug and see from that bridge the government building where they signed the famous Maastricht treaty, Ceramique, Wyck, Sint Servaas bridge, Markt and Vrijthof.

Jeker Quarter Tour: Discover the beauty of this beloved neighborhood with the small river Jeker that occasionally disappears under houses and streets and then reappears. See the Bisschopsmolen (water mill), the buildings of the university, the ancient city walls and more.

Industrial Tour: This tour covers part of the industrial history of Maastricht, the oldest industry city of the Netherlands. The guide shows you around the Sphinx Quarter, here you see the old factory buildings, the permanent exhibition of Sphinx on 30.000 tiles (120 meters long covered passage) and the old inner harbor Bassin.

Fortifications Tour: Maastricht was the most important fortification city of the Netherlands. Walk along and over the 3 different city walls. See the Helpoort (Hell’s Gate) and the statue of the fourth musketeer d’ Artagnan. Listen to the stories of the guide about the many sieges.

The above are a selection of the private tours but we also offer customized tours for your group.

All the tours start at the Onze Lieve Vrouweplein in front of the Onze Lieve Vrouwebasiliek (church), but on request we can start also at another place in the center.

For private tours check our calendar which timeslots are available!! To complete your reservation, you select the time slot. You can then participate in this tour with a maximum of 22 persons.