Dr. Melonie Clemmons, independent doctor of optometry at Wal-Mart Vision Center, offers some helpful tips on what you should pack in your bag to ensure your time outdoors is both fun and healthy:
- Always pack sunscreen to protect your skin from premature aging and skin cancers
Make sure you choose a sunscreen product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and remember to reapply after swimming, sweating or toweling dry.(1)
- Bring along protective eyewear to block the sun's harmful UV rays
People often recognize the need to protect their skin from the dangers of the sun, yet few people realize that their eyes are also at risk. Even the sensitive skin surrounding the eyes can be damaged by prolonged sun exposure and is susceptible to wrinkling and forms of skin cancer. Consider wearing photochromic lenses like Transitions(R) lenses that are clear indoors and at night and automatically darken when exposed to UV light to block 100 percent of UVA/UVB rays.
- Water
Staying hydrated by drinking 8-10 glasses of water everyday can help combat the effects of increased sun exposure.
- Pack lip balm with SPF protection
The sun's UV rays pose a threat to your skin, eyes and also your lips. Wearing lip balm with SPF protection can protect your lips from overexposure to the sun and help prevent painful lip chapping.
- Pack a wide brimmed hat and other protective clothing
Selecting clothing that helps block some of UV rays further helps you keep both your skin and eyes protected from the sun. On really sunny days where you spend extended time outdoors, consider bringing a beach umbrella to provide you with a chance to relax in the shade.
- Check the UV index for your travel destination
Before you head outdoors visit (http://en-us.transitions.com/healthysight/uv/local.htm) check the UV index to see how strong the sun will be in your area, so you can plan accordingly for your time in the sun.
"In order to receive the maximum protection, it's important to make sure that your eyewear blocks 100% of UV rays," said Dr. Clemmons. "I recommend that my patients choose photochromic lenses, like Transitions( )lenses, as a convenient choice to bring with them on vacation. Not only do Transitions reduce distracting glare, but they also automatically darken as light conditions change to block 100% of UVA/UVB rays, protecting the eyes and the delicate surrounding skin from cumulative sun damage."
SOURCE Transitions Optical, Inc.
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