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With my new job, I spend a lot of time outside. Like A LOT. Especially since right now I’m only trained to work in the daytime. And while I come from the desert climate of Utah and am well adjusted to heat, Orlando heat and humidity for a 6 or 8 hour shift can be rough.
As an added “bonus” I discovered I have some weird skin conditions that rear their grotesque heads after intense exposure to the sun and heat. When I’ve traveled to Disney or other theme parks, I spend time outside, but I also go inside frequently for attractions, shows and eating. My job has me outside all the time for now. So I didn’t realize until the last couple of weeks how intense these issues were.
But, because of that, I’ve got some really useful tips and product suggestions for surviving work or fun in the sun!
#1- WEAR SUNSCREEN!!!
Whether you are going to be outside playing in the sun or working in the sun, the first thing you want to make sure you have is Sunscreen. SPF 30+ is recommended. Personally, I try to find SPF 50+. And I make sure I have some on me so I can reapply throughout the day. Honestly, the reapplication part is my biggest struggle. I’m going to give you a couple of suggestions for SPF and you can choose what works best for you.
Neutrogena Beach Defense SPF 70 Spray Sunscreen- $8.97 on Amazon
The spray-on option is nice because it makes application pretty easy. Although, you should rub in the sunscreen after you spray it on. For the most part, I really like how this goes on. My only problem is that I developed a weird allergy and needed to switch sunscreens. Which leads me to recommendation #2…
Neutrogena Sensitive Skin SPF 60+- $9.97 on Amazon
If you have skin that is sensitive or prone to eczema, this is a great option! It’s a cream sunscreen. But it helps to lock in the moisture and it’s specially formulated to not cause break outs or rashes. This is my new best friend. I simultaneously discovered that I have a weird stress-triggered eczema AND I am very sensitive to prolonged heat/sun exposure. This product solved my issues. Now I can prevent sunburn and keep my skin sensitivities at bay.
#2- STAY HYDRATED!!!
This is another vital step! When I work, I keep a water bottle clipped to my belt and we are encouraged to drink a bottle of water per hour. Because I am often busy helping guests, I don’t usually get a bottle per hour, but when I go on my breaks I try to make up for it. Also, remember to pre-hydrate before you get to you sunny activities. If you start out as a grape, it will take longer to get to the raisin point. If you’re already mostly raisin, you’re gonna have problems. Drink water on your way to work/fun time. Here are a couple of products that I really like and help me with my hydration needs.
This is my beverage of choice for my lunch break. It tastes great, has only 5 calories per serving and contains natural caffeine for a little extra boost. On my long shifts, it really helps to have the caffeine boost. But I don’t like soda. And frankly, you need to be careful about soda and coffee anyway. They will dehydrate you more quickly. Water is always a first choice, but sometimes you need to switch it up.
nuun electrolyte tablets- $18.04 for 40 tablets on Amazon
My friend introduced these to me and I’m excited to give them a try! They plop right into your water bottle and dissolve to give you subtle flavor and as well as electrolytes. Try them out on your next vacation or even when you’re doing your workouts!
#3- PROTECT YOUR FACE
Your face can definitely take a roasting in the sunshine. And you can’t just use any regular sunscreen on it because they could cause breakouts. So here are some options for your face protection-
Neutrogena UltraSheer Face and Body Stick SPF 70- $8.16 on Amazon
I’ve tried this one and I really like it. It’s like a stick of deodorant that you rub on your face. SPF 70 is fantastic protection too! It glides on easily over or under your make up (or use without make up).
ELF Beauty Shield SPF 50- $12 at Target
This has kept my face completely protected. I can tell it’s working because if I miss a spot or don’t get close enough to my hairline, I get a little spot of sunburn. It goes on smoothly and SPF 50 on my face without break outs!!!! It’s the dream!
Neutrogena Revitalizing lip Balm SPF 20- $6.29 on Amazon
Don’t forget to protect your lips! Blisters and cold sores on your lips are not fun! This lip balm has several great color options and is so moisturizing AND has SPF 20! I love it. I have one that I keep at home and one that I carry with me while I work so I can reapply!
#4- ACCESSORIZE!!!
Hats are in! Just ask the Queen of England! But really, if you’re going to spend a lot of time outside, do yourself and favor and get a hat. For work, I’m provided with a wide-brimmed hat. I wear it…sometimes. Honestly, sometimes it kind of feels like it gets in the way. But it does keep my ears from getting sunburned and protects my face and neck as well. I also have a baseball cap that I wear when I know I’m going to spend a day in the sun. And of course, if you’re super sensitive to the sun, consider wearing long sleeved Sun Protection Shirts.
UV/Sun Protection Shirts- $21.99 at Amazon
I am not currently using one of these because I’m afraid I’ll sweat even more and end up dehydrated, but I’ve definitely considered it and if you’re SUPER sun sensitive, please consider it.
#5- AFTER SUN PRODUCTS
Even if you do everything right, you still need to take care of yourself AFTER you’ve spent significant time in the sun. This is something I’ve been spending some time honing these last few weeks. Just like pre-hydration, I need to come home and post-hydrate as well. I usually come home and down a Powerade. My skin also needs some extra TLC after.
BananaBoat After Sun Gel- $13.99 for 2 pack on Amazon
Find a good after sun gel. This isn’t the one I use. I actually use the MaryKay after-sun replenishing gel. It’s a limited edition item and not always available, so I gave you link to a similar product available on Amazon. Even if you only get a little sun, use the gel! If you get sunburned, DEFINITELY use the gel! It keeps things cool and moisturizes your sunburn. It’s saved my life. I’ve definitely been getting sun, but because I’ve been using my after sun gel, I haven’t been peeling!
OZNaturals Vitamin C Mask- $13.49 on Amazon
Vitamin C is vital to sun exposure recovery. This mask has all of the important ingredients to help you skin recover. It’s also mild enough that it can be used daily. It helps my skin rebound after a day in the sun. I definitely see and feel the difference.
Garnier SkinActive Moisture Bomb sheet mask- $14.19 for a 6 pack on Amazon
It’s all about the hydration after sun exposure. Moisturizing sheet masks are great to add a little extra moisture to your face. My face definitely feels softer and happier after I use a moisturizing sheet mask.
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