There’s a heat wave coming and it’s called SUMMER! It’s definitely getting warmer in all parts of the country and there’s plenty of ways to protect yourself and your skin from the sun.

Here’s a few steps to do it:

Step 1

Wear long-sleeved clothes when you go outdoors. Pants and a long-sleeved shirt shield your body from the sun's rays; darker colors protect skin better than light ones. If you're at the beach or pool and can't wear long-sleeved clothes, cover your torso with a long T-shirt.

Step 2

Wash clothes with a UV-repellent laundry detergent. These detergents coat clothing with microscopic crystals. The crystals prevent UV rays from penetrating the fabric and getting to your skin.

Step 3

Put on a wide-brimmed hat before heading out in the sun. Your face burns easily, so it's important to shade it with a hat, especially if you're not applying sunscreen. Don't use straw hats; they have small holes that let sunlight through.

We recommend the new Champion 4101NN Twill Hat:

Step 4

Protect your eyes with sunglasses that filter UVA and UVB rays. Opt for wrap-around sunglasses for the best protection.

Step 5

Sit in the shade as often as you can when you're outdoors. Look for shade under an awning or tree. At the pool or beach, sit under a large umbrella.

Step 6

Avoid going outside between the hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The sun's rays are strongest during this time period.