Living in southern Maine is a dream. With the ocean to the east and mountains to the west, it offers limitless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
With the arrival of warmer weather, being proactive about sun protection is equally as important as remembering your towels, water, snacks and beach toys. Walking into a store for sunscreen can feel overwhelming with so many options, so we’re here to help make your choices a little easier!
We checked out the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF) website and found it to be a near one-stop shop for everything you need to know about sun safety, including a helpful link to recommended sunscreens and where to buy them.
According to the SCF, studies show that using SPF 15 sunscreen daily, as directed, can reduce your risk of squamous cell carcinoma by about 40% and cut your melanoma risk by 50%.
- SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and the number reflects the level of protection against your skin burning. If you use SPF 15, it will take you 15 times longer to burn than without sunscreen. The higher the SPF, the more protection you provide for your skin.
- Dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for daily activities. If you’ll be outside for extended periods, especially during peak hours when the sun is most intense between 10am and 4pm, consider using SPF 50 or higher.
- If you’re headed to a pool or the ocean, opt for water-resistant sunscreen and reapply every two hours. Be sure to apply more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots like the back of your neck, your feet and your ears. If your ears have ever blistered, chances are you won’t forget sunscreen there again!
While protecting your skin from the sun is essential, it doesn’t need to ruin your fun. Make sunscreen your daily companion so you can focus on the adventure ahead without worry. Whether you’re wandering forest trails or taking in the ocean views, you’ll be equipped to experience Maine’s wonders fully and comfortably.
