It is easy to remember to protect the face from the harmful action of the sun's rays, but the neck also needs protection: fortunately there are several solutions to protect this part of the body during sun exposure. Keeping your skin healthy takes effort, but it's worth it in the long run.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Use a sunscreen
Step 1. Apply a broad spectrum high SPF sunscreen
No sunscreen can guarantee complete protection, but if it has an SPF 100 it blocks about 99% of UVB rays, the most harmful ones. Make sure the package says "broad spectrum" so that it also protects you from UVA rays.
- Look for a water-resistant or sweat-resistant product. Make sure it can protect your neck for 40-80 minutes should it get wet.
- For added protection, apply a layer of cream followed by a spray of sunscreen.
Step 2. Apply 30ml of sunscreen to the upper body, including the neck
Almost everyone mistakenly thinks that, to protect yourself adequately, it is enough to spread a light layer of cream. Don't be frugal when applying it to your skin - run your fingers along the neck to make sure you cover it completely.
It is generally preferable to apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before exposure. This gives it time to form a protective barrier on the skin
Step 3. Apply it again every 2 hours
It will eventually be absorbed and lose its effectiveness under normal conditions. If you swim or throw a towel around your neck, you may want to smear it more often. Just to be clear, a higher SPF doesn't mean it lasts longer.
Method 2 of 3: Protect the Neck with Clothes
Step 1. Wear a hat with a 5-8cm wide brim
A regular baseball cap can leave the back of the neck and ears exposed to the sun. If it has a wide brim, however, you can also protect the neck. Straw can provide some protection, but tightly knit fabrics are more suitable.
- Some hats have a reflective underside that repels the sun's rays.
- It is estimated that the risk of skin cancer decreases by 10% for every 5 cm added to the brim of the hat.
Step 2. Put on a cap with a helmet around it
It is a hat that fits close to the head, like a baseball one, with a long and dense fabric cover on the sides and on the back that protects the ears and the nape from the sun. Buy it at a sports or hiking store.
Step 3. Wrap a bandana around your neck
The bandana is a light, square-shaped piece of fabric that can easily be folded around the neck. You can tie the ends at the front or to the side. Adjust the drape to cover the entire nape of the neck.
- If it's very hot, dip the bandana in cold water before wrapping it around your neck to get some cooling.
- In the absence of anything else, you can use any square piece of cloth.
Step 4. Wear a high-necked garment
If you have to go to the beach or go for a swim in the sea, wear a "rashguard" T-shirt with a mock neck, which reaches the middle of the throat; it will help block the sun's rays without compromising perspiration. Many outdoor gear companies also produce lightweight long neck jerseys, in some cases removable.
Check that the top is relatively snug or that it can bend, leaving the neck partially exposed
Step 5. Choose clothing with anti-UV fabric
Buy turtlenecks, bandanas, or hats made from this material. The protection factor ranges from 15 to 50+, and the higher it is, the more the garment offers a stronger barrier against UVA and UVB rays. However, protection is only effective if the garment remains dry.
- For example, if you plan to stay in the sun for a long time, opt for a factor of 40+, because it can block about 98% of UV rays. If it is between 25 and 35, it is indicated for short periods of sun exposure.
- Use a sarong. You can put it under the hat or on the shoulders. It is a great choice for protecting the neck.
Method 3 of 3: Limit the Effects of the Sun
Step 1. Don't sunbathe between 10am and 4pm
These are the hours when UV rays are most harmful and the risk of getting burned is greatest. If the sun is high and the shadow cast on the ground is short, it is probably very hot. At these times, try to stay indoors or in the shade.
Step 2. Bring an umbrella with you or sit under an umbrella
Create some coolness by using a beach umbrella or by keeping an umbrella open as you walk. Choose one manufactured with a high protection factor. To fully safeguard the neck, place the cane on the shoulder to tilt it and repair the nape of the neck.
Some umbrellas are equipped with a ventilation joint that allows greater air circulation
Step 3. Pay attention to the skin reaction
If you sunbathe and your neck starts to hurt, don't hesitate to repair yourself. It may also become excessively hot to the touch. Other symptoms that accompany sunburn are redness and swelling of the skin.
To be sure, press the skin with your finger - if it immediately turns red, it could indicate a sunburn
Step 4. Treat sunburn with aloe vera, soy or calamine cream
If your neck is red or sore, smear some cream on your skin. You can also take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen, to help relieve pain and swelling. Stop exposing yourself to the sun until your neck and other areas have completely healed.
- In case of sunburn, do not use products containing petroleum jelly, benzocaine or lidocaine.
- If you have to use medications or medicated creams, always follow the instructions on dosage and how to use.
- If you want to get some relief, put a cool, damp cloth around your burned neck 1-2 times a day until it heals.
- During the healing process, cover the burned skin so it doesn't make the problem worse.
- If blisters form, don't break them. Leave them intact as the lesion heals.
- See your doctor if you feel dizzy, faint, cold, feverish, or stomach ache.
Advice
- Stay hydrated when you go out in the sun. This will reduce the risk of sunburn in the neck and other parts of the body.
- 15-20 minutes is enough to get a sunburn.
Warnings
- Make sure the sunscreen you apply to your neck hasn't expired or it will be ineffective.
- Taking certain medications, such as doxycycline, can promote sunburn. In these cases, take extra precautions to protect your neck.
