Handy Tips to Avoid That Sneaky Sunburn This Spring

As we had through spring in the Rockies, one thing is for sure: the sunshine that does break through the clouds can pack quite a punch if you're unprepared.

Just because the snow is gone and the temperatures remain cool doesn't mean your skin is safe from a sunburn.

Let’s take a look at how to protect yourself before you look like a lobster.

Why Spring Sunburns Are So Sneaky

Coming out of winter and being bundled up for the last few months, our skin has not seen the light of day in quite some time.

And let's be honest it's hard to resist showing a little skin as soon as those temperatures climb a few degrees.

But don't let those cooler springtime temperatures fool you, ultraviolet rays don't care about the temperature.

Here’s why:

Lack of skin conditioning: After months of being covered up, your skin hasn’t built up any natural protection.
Higher elevation = stronger UV exposure: In Montana’s mountain regions, UV rays are even more intense.
Snow and water reflections: Leftover snowfields or spring runoff can bounce sunlight and double your exposure.

5 Easy Ways to Protect Your Skin This Spring

1. Wear Sunscreen—Yes, Even Now
It is best to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. The longer you are outside, the more often you should reapply.

2. Don’t Forget the “Forgotten” Zones
Don't forget about your ears, back, neck, or scalp.

3. Layer Up Smartly
Wearing a light shirt or a wide-brimmed hat can help cut down on some exposure.

4. Time It Right
If possible, avoid the direct sunshine between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are there strongest.

5. Hydrate Inside and Out
Drink plenty of water and use a good moisturizer.

What To Do If You Get Burned

Sometimes, even with good intentions, a burn slips through. If it happens:

Get out of the sun immediately.
Use aloe vera or a soothing lotion to cool your skin.
Drink water to help your body heal.
Take ibuprofen to reduce inflammation if needed.
Avoid tight clothing while your skin recovers.

6 Unique Remedies for Treating Sunburn

Chances are you have a bottle of aloe vera gel somewhere in your house that you've likely had for years ready to be applied when you've spent a little too much time out in the sun and your skin feels (and looks) like the surface of the sun. Maybe it's in a medicine cabinet or a bathroom closet. Maybe you keep it in the door of the refrigerator so it's good and cold to help ease the pain of sunburn a little quicker. While it's a great and highly recommended way to care for your skin after a sunburn, there are other options in your house that can also do the trick.

Gallery Credit: Ryan O'Bryan

Great Summer Destinations Outside Of Montana

If you're looking for something to do this summer, but you're like to get away from Big Sky Country, you don't have to travel far. There are several great summer destinations all within a day's drive of Montana and we've got the total list below.

Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf

19 Sad Summer Songs That Sting Worse Than a Sunburn

Summer and sadness — two words that should never go together, right? But unfortunately, heartbreak and hard times don't always plan around your vacation schedule. If you're wallowing in bed when you should be having fun in the sun this summer, these sad country summer songs should help you feel less alone.

Gallery Credit: Carena Liptak

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