The heat is on. Summer is in full swing, and our buddy the Sun is going to shine intensely upon you, me, and everything else for the next few months. Are you ready? Let’s run through a brief checklist of how we can enjoy experiencing life in nature while absorbing the UVA/B we need and defending against more.
Extensive scientific research has been conducted, providing us with usable data to demonstrate both the beneficial and detrimental effects of sunlight exposure. We need vitamin D for multiple reasons. Our eyes are repaired from damage sustained by extended screen times, which boosts our immune system, brain, and muscle function. We incur UVA/B damage on our skin, and we can see it in furniture, cars, yard/farm equipment, etc.
I have a collection of summer hats to protect my bald head and wear covering clothes while working outside, or sunblock to mitigate skin damage while at the beach. My ute has heat-blocking car window shades on all sides and rear windows. They really help keep my interior protected from long-term sun exposure when not parked under the carport.
Not that I intend to sell my ute, but the quality of the interior is important for resale value if you do, just like the exterior finish. Patina is not cool on a five-year-old car. While I often look for a tree to park under, the leaves and birds can do their own damage. My window shades are laser fit and magnetically attached; they function with the windows closed or open while driving. They even defend from motorway dirt.
Material science has come a long way since the accordion shades, but the benefits of car shades are well known. None of them helps my utes finish. Custom-fit car covers have also advanced. While the simple elastic style still exists, we can now install a solar-controlled, auto-deploying car shade that deploys during rain or intense sun.
Another benefit of material science is the breathable materials for clothing called performance synthetics. That just sounds cool, but they are blends of nylon, polyester, and spandex for fit and breathability during outdoor activities. These materials are why I can fish all day without burning. My ute is how I find the location.
My laser-fit window shades are certified to meet all Department of Transport laws for safety. There are many options on the market to control how much sunlight reaches your family or interior while motoring. Do not skimp on safety in the process.
Similarly, double-check the lotion you use contains quality ingredients. There are plenty of choices for natural component lotions. My hat stash is full of sustainable materials as well. Bamboo, hemp, and organic cotton are gaining in popularity and variety of uses in fashion. I mention this because while you are protecting yourself, family, and car, you can make an effort to protect the earth as well. Have a great summer. Burn the candle at both ends but not yourself.