Before You Bare, Cover Up!

The summer doesn't officially begin until June 21, in the Northern Hemisphere. However, in the USA, this upcoming weekend is a three-day holiday ending on Monday, May 30, with the observance of the Memorial Day holiday. Most people in this country consider this date the unofficial beginning of the legendary season of "fun-in-the-sun." No matter which date one prefers for the arrival of summertime, there's no denying the fact warmer temperatures and longer hours of daylight are here. This means that the textile folks are wearing less clothing and us clothes-free enthusiasts are nude, as usual.

That also means that most (if not all) of us, bare or otherwise, are outside in the sunshine more than we were a month ago. And while we're outdoors, all of us are exposing our skin to the sun's rays. This baring of ourselves in all this sunlight is a welcome change and an enormous relief after the forced hibernation of this past winter season and frigid temperatures.

In our eagerness to get out and frolic in the fresh air and warm sun, many of us forget one of the basic rules of summer health. We all need to cover up (protect) our skin before we uncover any part or all of our body. This cover up entails the use of an appropriate sunscreen, applied correctly, adequately (sufficient quantity) and, when necessary, re-applied diligently. Using sunscreen allows most of us to make the most of whatever our summer plans may offer. The purpose of sunscreen is to protect ourselves from sunburn (or worse), a condition depicted on the back of the man in the photograph below.

Sunburn is caused by the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation and not heat. It is important to remember that skin can burn even on overcast or cloudy days, cold winter days and while under shade (shelter from direct sunlight). Sunburn damages or destroys the skin, which controls the amount of heat or body retains or releases, hols in fluids (hydration) and protects us from infection. 

Reactions to sunburn, depending on the severity of the burn, range from mild irritation to serious pain. Sunburn may cause fevers and nausea and makes the dead skin peel away. Sunburn may lead to serious health complications later in life. 

The information below is very general and is offered as a guide in selecting the type of sunscreen that's best for personal protection. Keep in mind that every individual is just that, an individual: a unique person. What is applicable for one may or may not be the same for another. When in doubt, consult a health practitioner. It's better to ask now than to be sorry later!  

What is sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a chemical that, to a certain degree, prevents UV radiation from reaching and damaging the skin. While there is no product that totally eliminates UV radiation damage, many variations, when used properly, can and do protect the skin adequately. 

What should I look for in a sunscreen?

Regardless of where the sun activity is taking place: backyard, ball-playing field, park, pool or beach, the product should contain two elements for effective protection. Always look for a "broad spectrum" sunscreen that contains chemicals that block both UV-A and UV-B radiation from penetrating the skin surface. 

While no product is completely waterproof, select a "water resistant" type that is designed for long-lasting wear, especially if swimming or sweating. Choose a brand that is both easy to apply and feels good on the skin. There are numerous commercial variations available: creams, lotions, gels, sprays, moisturizers and solid-stick types.  

What is SPF?

The initials "SPF" refer to skin protection factor. It is the measure of the effectiveness of the sunscreen in absorbing UV-B radiation. If someone sunburns after about 10 minutes of sun exposure, using a product of SPF15 extends the amount of time before sunburn occurs to 150 minutes or two-and-a-half hours. After this amount of time, it should be reapplied to continue protection. 

In terms of percentages, a product of SPF15 blocks 93%  of the UV-B rays. One of SPF30 blocks 97% of radiation and one of SPF50 blocks 99%. The difference in protection may not justify the added expense of higher SPF sunscreens. 

What's the best sunscreen for me?

This depends on many factors, including age, skin type, activity, time of day, location (proximity to the equator) and the UV index. For most skin types, a sunscreen with a minimum SPF15 is recommended. Men with fair or lighter skin tones (of all races) and low sun tolerance (burn easily) should use a SPF30. For minimal sun exposure, 90 minutes or less, a moisturizer cream may suffice (with correct SPF level). For extended periods of sun exposure and higher activity engagement, use a longer lasting product such as a cream, gel or lotion. Spray (aerosol or pump) are beneficial of hairy parts of the body, including the arms, armpits, back, chest, legs and the pubic (penis) region. If a person is acne-prone, choose sunscreens that are oil-free or non-carnodegenic.  

For persons with sensitive skin, the chemicals in some sunscreens may cause skin irritation. Use a product that only physical blockers (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide). A physical blocker does not penetrate the skin layers as do chemicals. Physical blockers stay on the skin surface to provide protection. 

What's the best way to use sunscreen?

If you've used sunscreen before and burned, it was either applied incorrectly or the wrong SPF. For sunscreen to be effective, it must be applied in sufficient quantity, applied correctly and thoroughly. Apply prior to sun exposure and re-apply often. Remember to use a lip balm with a minimum SPF15 protection. 

How much?

For best results and protection, one ounce (a full shot glass) per adult body per application (minimally). Apply liberally all over the body, including the hairy areas. Don't forget the edges of the ears and ear lobes. 

When to apply?

At least 30 minutes before going into the sun. Re-apply 15 minutes later. The extra application helps to completely cover body areas that may have been missed the first time. Once in direct sunlight, re-apply every couple of hours, especially if swimming, perspiring or towel drying. When in doubt, consult the directions on the label of the product.   

Who should use sunscreen?

Everyone needs skin protection from the sun's radiation rays. All races are susceptible to sunburn. Men with darker skin complexions may have a higher tolerance for sun exposure but at some point, will begin to experience sunburn. Bear (and bare) in mind that skin damage and serious complications later are a result of failure or neglect in protecting the skin.

What does the expiration date mean? 

Sunscreen usually remains stable and effective for a period of three years. After the expiration date, the contents will begin to decompose and as a result, not offer the intended protection. The compromised product will no longer block the sun's harmful rays. 

Always check the expiration date before application. Discard if the sunscreen is past the recommended "use by" date. 

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I always throw away any unused sunscreen after two years as I don't like taking any chance of sunburn or worse. When I purchase a new item, I mark the year purchased on the container using a permanent marker (and re-mark the year if necessary). 

For the Naturist/Nudist:

Apply sunscreen to the entire body. This includes areas not usually in sunlight: the ass, armpits, penis and testicles (both front and back). Don't forget behind the knees and feet! Follow the re-application guidelines every couple of hours. Body areas that may not receive direct sunlight absorb UV-A and UV-B radiation indirectly. Protect all your skin!

Manscaping (removal of body hair), no matter the method used (razor, laser, waxing, etc.) creates sensitive areas on the skin surface. First apply a gentle body lotion, wait 15 minutes to allow the skin to absorb the lotion, then generously apply sunscreen.  

Sunglasses: The sun's rays are absorbed through the eyes. Use sunglasses that offer UV-radiation protection to prevent any damage to the eye. Most manufacturers apply labels to the lenses advertising their UV-filtering capability.  

After sun moisturizing: is highly recommended to help the skin retain properties that may have been lost through sun activity. Cover the entire body to prevent excessive drying. 

Summer offers a nudecentric paradise for a variety of bare outdoor activities: aquatics, athletics, barbecues and cook-outs, events, festivals and socials. It's also time for quiet solitude such as gardening, hiking, reading and crafts projects and art. No matter how we choose to spend our leisure time, proper prevention against sunburn ensures us all freedom from concerns from sun exposure. One less worry as we go about our business of having "fun-in-the-sun!" 

In following the above guidelines and our own common sense, we'll be able to look back in the autumn and know: a good time was had by all!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Bare With Pride