Don’t let a sunburn stop your summer plans. Use our guide to help protect your skin & learn when a visit to our Farragut clinic is needed.
It’s finally warm enough for fishing at Anchor Park, biking on the Grigsby Chapel Greenway, and lazy afternoons at McFee Park’s Splashpad. Summertime in Farragut is all about enjoying the sunshine, but without the right precautions, all that sun can leave your skin paying the price.
The good news? You don’t have to hide indoors or wear long sleeves all summer long. With just a few smart habits, you can protect your skin without sacrificing fun, and that means fewer sunburns, less skin damage, and better health in the long run.
Here’s how to stay sun-safe while still enjoying everything a Farragut summer has to offer.
1. Sunscreen Is Your Best Friend (But Only If You Use It Right)
We all know we should wear sunscreen, but most people still forget it, underuse it, or skip key areas (like the tops of ears and the back of the neck).
Here’s what works best:
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Apply it 15–30 minutes before going outside so it has time to absorb.
- Use at least 1 ounce (a shot glass full) for full-body coverage.
- Reapply every 2 hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Look for water-resistant formulas when you’re heading to the pool or lake, and don’t forget to reapply after toweling off.
2. Seek Shade Strategically
You don’t have to avoid the sun altogether but giving your skin some time out of direct exposure helps a lot.
Try building shade into your day with:
- A beach umbrella or pop-up canopy at the park
- Sitting under trees or covered patios during cookouts or picnics
- Planning indoor breaks if you’re outside for more than an hour or two. We recommend taking a sweet break at VG’s Bakery.
Also, aim to avoid direct sun during peak UV hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Even shifting your plans slightly earlier or later in the day can reduce your sun exposure significantly.
3. Hydration Helps Too
Staying hydrated won’t prevent sunburn, but it helps your body cope with sun exposure. When you’re out in the heat, your skin can dry out faster, and dehydration makes it harder for your body to heal if you do get burned.
Drink water consistently throughout the day, especially if you’re active or in the sun. If you’re sweating a lot, consider adding a sports drink or electrolyte mix to stay balanced.
4. Make Sun Protection a Habit, Not a Hassle
The key to consistent protection? Make it part of your routine, just like brushing your teeth. Keep sunscreen:
- In your beach bag
- In your car
- Near your front door
- In your kids’ backpacks or sports bags
This makes it easy to reapply on the go or share with friends and family when someone forgets theirs.
5. Don’t Let Clouds Fool You
Summer brings the occasional overcast day but don’t let that gray sky trick you. Up to 80% of UV rays still pass through clouds, so even when it feels cooler or looks cloudy, your skin is still vulnerable.
6. Watch for Early Signs of Overexposure
If your skin is starting to feel warm, tight, or pink while you’re outside, that’s your cue to take a break. A light sunburn can turn into something more serious if you don’t act quickly.
If you or a family member develops blisters, chills, or nausea, it may be time to check in with a provider.
When to Visit AFC Farragut
We’re here for you if a sunburn turns into something more.
Visit us if you experience:
- Severe sunburn with blisters
- Signs of heat exhaustion
- Dehydration or confusion
- Infected or slow-healing burns
Safely Soak Up the Summer
There’s no shortage of summer fun in Farragut, but protecting your skin now can save you a lot of pain later. With just a little prep, you can enjoy every hike, swim, picnic, and park day without bringing home a burn.
And if something does go wrong? Our experienced team at AFC is here to help you. We offer extended hours outside 9-5 because we know that summer fun goes beyond the business hours.
