Summer is in full swing, and shoppers at the monthly Round Rock Market Days are feeling the heat. The triple-digit temps and blazing sun don’t mean that you should hide away inside, sipping iced tea in front of the A/C. But they do mean you’ll need to take extra precautions to stay safe while you enjoy the local vendors and jam to the market’s free live music.
Use sunscreen.
Sunscreen, everyone’s trusty old friend, should be part of your life every day, but it’s especially important when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Market Days are scheduled during the hours (8 a.m. to 3 p.m.) when most dermatologists recommend staying out of the sun, so don’t skimp on the protection.
Give yourself a pat on the back if you remember to put sunscreen on before you go out in the sun. After all, more than half of the respondents in a Consumer Reports survey admitted that they “usually skip sunscreen.”
But if you think you’re covered for the day after just one application, think again. Dermatologists recommend that you reapply every one to two hours. Even water-resistant sunscreens need to be reapplied after swimming or heavy sweating. And what Round Rock resident hasn’t broken a sweat while enjoying the market during the summer months?
Wear sun-protective clothing.
It may be tempting to wear as little as possible when it’s hot out, but sun-protective clothing is worth the effort. How do you outfit yourself in sun-safe garb?
Start with a wide-brimmed hat to protect your head and face. Throw on some 100 percent UV-blocking sunglasses to shield your eyes from the harsh sunlight. Next, try to choose clothes made with synthetic fibers instead of cotton. Lastly, remember that tighter weaves and lighter colors will protect your skin from the sun better than looser weaves and darker colors.
Seek shade.
In between noshing on the food-truck fare, browsing the booths and mingling with fellow Round Rock residents, take a break in a shady spot. A tree or a vendor booth canopy should do the trick. You might even consider carrying an umbrella to have a personal, portable source of shade everywhere you go.
Hydrate!
Staying hydrated on a cool day is a good idea. Staying hydrated when you’re sweating buckets on a hot, sunny day is essential. If you start to feel any of the symptoms of dehydration listed below, get something to drink and take a break from whatever you’re doing.
Signs of dehydration:
- Thirst
- Dry mouth and lips
- Flushed skin
- Dizziness, headaches, feeling faint
- Muscle cramps
Proper hydration also helps prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke. And while alcohol and sugary drinks are not completely off the table, limit your intake to avoid heat-related problems.
Make the most of your summer.
Follow these sun safety tips, and you’ll not only get the most out of your time at Round Rock Market Days, but you’ll also avoid a painful sunburn, damaging effects like premature aging and skin cancer.
Looking to Visit a Dermatologist?
If you have questions about sun safety or want to schedule an appointment, we are here to help. Call Dr. Peckham at U.S. Dermatology Partners Cedar Park location. We also have multiple locations throughout the country, so fill out our simple online form to get in touch with us. One of our local team members will reach out to you shortly to answer your questions or schedule an appointment for you to visit us soon.
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