## Tanning and Scuba Diving: How to Protect Yourself
When you’re scuba diving, the last thing you want to worry about is getting sunburned. But if you’re not careful, it can happen quickly. The sun’s rays are much stronger underwater than they are on land, and you can get burned even on a cloudy day.
There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from getting tanned while scuba diving:
– Wear a rash guard or wetsuit. This will help to block the sun’s rays and keep you cool.
– Apply sunscreen. Choose a sunscreen that is water-resistant and has an SPF of 30 or higher. Be sure to apply it liberally and reapply it every two hours.
– Wear a hat. A hat with a wide brim will help to shade your face and neck from the sun.
– Seek shade. If you can, try to dive in areas that are shaded from the sun.
– Limit your time in the sun. The longer you spend in the sun, the more likely you are to get burned.
If you do get sunburned, there are a few things you can do to relieve the pain and discomfort:
– Take a cool bath or shower.
– Apply a cool compress to the burned area.
– Aloe vera gel can help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
– Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
– Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
If you have severe sunburn, you should see a doctor.
## Additional Tips
In addition to the tips above, here are a few other things you can do to protect yourself from the sun while scuba diving:
– Choose a diving mask with UV protection. This will help to block the sun’s rays from reaching your eyes.
– Wear sunglasses. Sunglasses will help to protect your eyes from the sun’s rays and reduce glare.
– Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated will help to keep your skin healthy and prevent sunburn.
– Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can dehydrate you and make you more susceptible to sunburn.
By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from getting tanned while scuba diving and enjoy your underwater adventures.
## Conclusion
Scuba diving is a great way to explore the underwater world, but it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself from the sun. By following the tips above, you can help to reduce your risk of getting tanned and enjoy your dives safely.