Sun Safety Tips for a Safe Summer | Neutrogena/MLS #GIVEAWAY

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Neutrogena through One2One Network. All opinions expressed are my own.

It’s hard to believe summer is just around the corner! We spend almost all our time outdoors during this season, whether it’s swimming, beachcombing for shells, grilling in the backyard, or attending local MLS games. Summer represents endless fun in the sun, but that can be risky without proper protection.

Excessive sun exposure can cause serious problems like sunburn, premature skin aging, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. Even with our knowledge about sun safety, skin cancer remains a health crisis – especially as melanoma rates in Missouri have surged by 13% over the last 10 years. Alarmingly, more than 350 Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every hour, despite it being one of the most preventable cancers. Just one severe sunburn can boost the risk of melanoma by 40%!

Here are my family’s Summer Sun Safety Tips to avoid sunburns:

1. Dress Smartly for the Sun: Sunglasses and hats not only serve as fashionable accessories but also offer significant protection from UV rays. A wide-brim hat shields your face, ears, and neck, while sunglasses protect your eyes and lessen the risk of cataracts. Choose dark clothing over light colors, as dark fabrics absorb more sun’s rays, providing better insulation than light colors that reflect heat.

2. Timing is Everything: The sun’s intensity and your exposure to harmful UV rays increase between 10 AM and 4 PM, when it’s at its peak. We try to limit outdoor activities during these hours, but if we must be outside, we seek shade whenever possible. Remember, you’re exposed to UV rays during picnics, home maintenance, long drives, and even spectator sports.

3. Use Sunscreen: After becoming a parent, I learned the importance of sunscreen and made it a priority to teach my children from a young age by setting a good example. Studies show that children are more likely to develop healthy habits, such as applying sunscreen, when they see their parents doing so.

My older kids and I like using Neutrogena® CoolDry Sport Sunscreen. It offers excellent protection even in extreme conditions and keeps our skin feeling cool and comfortable. The kids prefer Neutrogena® Pure & Free® Baby Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 60+. This sunscreen provides robust broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection using Purescreen, a physical sunscreen that effectively shields the baby’s delicate skin from harmful rays. It’s fragrance-free and contains gentle ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

If you’re interested in an organic, all-natural option with a commitment to sustainability, consider cocokind’s daily SPF. Its lightweight formula is kind on the skin while offering outstanding protection from UVA and UVB rays. Beyond providing effective sunscreen, the brand engages in sustainable practices and employs ethical labor. Their daily SPF page features details about their sustainability efforts, carbon footprints, recyclable packaging, and more.

Teaching and exemplifying good skin health habits is crucial to me, especially since my dad was diagnosed and treated for skin cancer due to years of unprotected sun exposure. Thankfully, Neutrogena and MLS have partnered this May, Skin Cancer Awareness Month, to raise awareness about prevention and to encourage families to adopt sun-safe habits early.

WIN IT:

Participate for a chance to win a giveaway prize package valued at $70, including:
• MLS Ball (Retail Value $10)
• MLS T-Shirt (Retail Value $10)
• CoolDry Sport Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Lotion SPF 30 (Retail Value $10)
• CoolDry Sport Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Spray SPF 70 (Retail Value $13)
• Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 85+ (Retail Value $13)
• Pure & Free Baby Face Ultra Gentle Cream Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45+ (Retail Value $12)

Share your #ChooseSkinHealth moments by having your kids #MimicMommy! Post pictures or videos of you and your children applying sunscreen together, tagging @Neutrogena on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter!