How To Avoid Sunburn While Swimming

People often wonder “can you get sunburned in the water?”.When swimming it’s all too easy to forget that our skin is still being exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, the water offers minimal protection from UV. In fact, it’s estimated that approximately 40% of UV radiation can still reach the body, almost half a metre below the water. In addition to this, the sun’s rays are even stronger when reflected off the water. So how can you protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV exposure when in the water? Sunscreen is key, but that’s not the only thing. Find out how to avoid sunburn while swimming with these top tips:

Apply Sunscreen

It might seem pretty obvious, however the importance of using sunscreen can’t be stressed enough when discussing how to avoid sunburn while swimming. Make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen to your entire body 20 minutes before going outside or swimming, so that it has time to soak in. Ensure you’re using a water-resistant sunscreen and are re-applying regularly. Check the packaging to see how often you should re-apply when in water. Most sunscreens will need to be reapplied approximately every hour. 

Wear Protective Clothing

Wearing UV-resistant clothing will provide you with an extra layer of protection, on top of your sunscreen. Made from lightweight, moisture wicking material, the Red Original Performance T-Shirt has the highest rating of protection from UV radiation - 50+ UPF. Ideal for throwing on before you head in the water, the T-Shirt will provide that extra level of protection for your shoulders and back, and the Dri-Release™ fabric used means the material will not cling to skin when wet. For kids, a UV swimsuit with long sleeves is important for keeping them protected from the sun while they’re swimming. Knowing how to avoid sunburn while swimming is particularly important for little ones whose skin is more sensitive to the sun’s rays.