In fact, it’s just one component of a complete sun protection strategy that includes daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15+ (30+ if you’re spending extended time outdoors), UV-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Because of these limitations, shade isn’t enough to protect you. Under a beach umbrella, you may be receiving less direct UV radiation, but you’re still surrounded by sand that is reflecting UV rays on all sides of your beach chair or blanket. No shade structure can completely shield you from indirect exposure to UV radiation, the type that occurs when UV rays bounce off of reflective surfaces like water, sand, concrete and even snow. Trees and awnings may provide some coverage when the sun is directly overhead, but less as it rises and sets, allowing the sun’s rays to hit you from different angles. The sun doesn’t stay still for long, and that can pose a unique challenge for many shade structures. Have you ever sat on the beach for the entire day with an umbrella overhead? If you have, you probably had to reposition the umbrella multiple times to make sure you were still getting adequate coverage from the sun’s rays as it moves across the sky. Next time you’re thinking shade, consider the following: Shade Isn’t Enough (Find a tree, sit under it - what’s so hard about that?) When exploring sun protection, however, it’s not as clear-cut as you may think: Not all shade structures are the same, and the level of sun protection offered can vary a great deal. Not only does shade give you a reprieve from the heat, but it can also help to protect you from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause skin damage and lead to skin cancer. Jane Austen was definitely on to something when she wrote, “To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon verdure is the most perfect refreshment.” There are few things better than resting under a tree or lounging on a breezy porch on a hot day.
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