How To Protect Your Skin When Working Outdoors
Working outside has its perks. You get fresh air, a nice dose of Vitamin D, and you avoid the soul-crushing hum of office fluorescent lights. The downside, however, is that the sun is relentlessly trying to turn your skin into a leather handbag.
If your job requires you to be out in the elements, you have to sacrifice your skin’s health for the sake of a paycheck. With this helpful guide, you’ll learn how to protect your skin while working outdoors.
Gear Up, Don’t Fry
Let’s be real, your first line of defense isn’t a lotion—it’s what you wear. Choosing the right clothing is crucial for shielding your skin from harmful UV rays. Think of your clothes as a portable, all-day shade provider.
Start with a wide-brimmed hat to protect your scalp, face, ears, and neck—areas that are prime targets for sunburn. Next, opt for long-sleeved shirts and pants. While it might sound counterintuitive in the heat, you can find plenty of modern fabrics that are lightweight and breathable.
However, if you want the best protection, look for clothing with a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating, which indicates the amount of UV radiation the fabric blocks. You can successfully beat the heat with gear that keeps you cool while offering serious sun protection.
Slather, Don’t Sizzle
Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days; it’s a non-negotiable tool in your daily work kit. Ensure you choose a high-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30. These sunscreens will guard you from the aging UVA rays and the sunburn-causing UVB rays.
At least 15 minutes before you head outside, apply it generously to all exposed skin. And no, a single application in the morning won’t cut it. You need to reapply every two hours (or more often if you sweat heavily). Keep a bottle in your truck or bag so that protecting yourself is always easy.
Make Your Skincare Work for You
Your skin faces more than just the sun when you’re outside. Dust, dirt, and pollution can clog your pores, while wind can leave your skin feeling dry and chapped. It’s time to build a skincare routine that can handle the grit and grime of an outdoor job.
Start and end your day by cleansing your face to wash away the day’s buildup. In the morning, follow up with a moisturizer that contains SPF for an extra layer of protection. In the evening, use a richer moisturizer to help your skin repair and rehydrate overnight.
Don’t forget your lips—a lip balm with SPF will prevent them from getting chapped and burned. Plus, you can tailor your skincare routine for year-round protection by adjusting your products based on the season, using a heavier cream in winter and a lighter lotion in summer.
Final Thoughts Before You Clock In
Protecting your skin doesn’t require a complicated or expensive regimen—you just need to be consistent, smart, and careful. By following these tips, you can protect your skin when working outdoors and stop worrying about long-term skin damage. Trust us, your future self will thank you!