Preventing and Dealing with Cruise Sunburns
If you’re getting ready to set off on an epic cruise adventure, you might already know that there are a few things to take into consideration before you go. One of them is the likelihood of sunburn, especially if your cruise is booked for a hot and sunny location like the Bahamas or the Mediterranean.
Sunburn is extremely common among those on cruise ships because the sun is reflected powerfully off of the ocean, creating a sort of mirror effect that makes the rays much more powerful. Thus, it’s crucial for you to take extra steps to prevent and treat burns, no matter what your skin type is! Read on and we’ll tell you how.
Avoid the Sun Between 10 and 4
If you are in the sun between 10am and 4pm, you are at the highest risk of burning! The sun’s rays are strongest at this time, so you should take extra caution if you will be outside during these hours. Regularly apply sunscreen cream to yourself and your children, or find indoor activities to enjoy during the day (hello, spa!) and leave in-sun fun for later in the afternoons, just like you’d do in NY City or any other place that gets extra hot at times.
Remember Your Shades
Sunglasses are very important when it comes to cruises, especially if they have polarized lenses. They assist in protecting your eyes from irreparable sun damage, and if you are on the water, you could be at high risk because of the bright glare reflecting off the sea. Plus, your shades will also protect the delicate skin around your eyes from wrinkles and premature ageing.
Pack a Strong Sun Cream
In order for sunscreen cream to work at its best, you need to know which one to buy! Your best bet is a broad-spectrum cream with an SPF of 30 or more – although experts recommend wearing SPF50 for most folks. Reapply your cream generously throughout the day, especially if you are in the sun; aim for reapplication every 2 hours, or every time you enter the pool as it will be washed off, water resistant or not.
Cover Yourself Up
You might be tempted to whip out that sexy string bikini or those board shorts to show off while you’re tanning and playing on your mobile phone by the pool, but you are leaving yourself at risk of sunburn that way! Covering up is the best way of reducing your chances of burning, so choose woven clothing like long t-shirts and jeans if you are especially prone. You could even invest in outdoor clothes with ultraviolet protection (UPF) if need be.
Stay Hydrated
As always, drinking enough water is essential. Be sure you are getting in at least 2 litres every day – and if you do burn, drink even more! You should also have a few packets of oral rehydration solution handy to drink in case of burns to rehydrate your body and aid in its recovery.
Treat Burns with Care
Are you already dealing with a stinging sunburn? Remember to take good care of yourself. Avoid additional sun exposure by any means while your burn is healing, and treat it with gentle, non-irritating products like pure aloe vera gel. Do not bathe in iced water directly after a burn, but stick to lukewarm baths and showers or avoid water completely for a while.
You might also want to take it easy, kick back and play some online pokies NZ on your phone or tablet for a few days while your body bounces back from the shock. Stay hydrated, eat lots of fruit for extra hydration power, and be sure to take the steps next time to protect your precious skin!
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