When that Fall whistle blows, signaling it’s time for sports, many fans head outdoors for tailgating and their game of choice, from youth soccer to college and professional football showdowns.
However, don’t let cooler temperatures trick you into thinking you are safe from the sun’s harmful rays. Ultraviolet radiation (UV) exposure is not something simply reserved for warmer months. Unlike football, problematic UV exposure isn’t seasonal. The sun can cause skin damage year-round. Sitting for long periods of time in an open-air setting subjects your skin to prolonged exposure. And sun damage to your skin can be worse than a fourth-quarter fumble.
Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics suggests protecting your skin on game day. Here are three easy-to-follow tips you can reach for before kickoff:
Apply and Reapply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
When it comes to sunscreen, the advice our board-certified dermatologists suggest for the summer remains the same in the fall. Before going outdoors and indulging in a tailgate or staking your claim in the stands, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 (50 is best). The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) reminds us that it takes about 15 minutes for your skin to absorb the sunscreen and offer maximum protection. Games often take place during the highest UV exposure window, which is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., prime time for potential sun damage. Reapply the sunscreen every two hours and immediately after sweating.
Suit Up with Sun-Protective Apparel
Consider sunscreen your defensive line against UV exposure, but you shouldn’t stop there. Like a football player suiting up with a helmet and pads, wear physical barriers of your own. We suggest several skin coverings for added protection. Choose a broad-brimmed hat, perhaps featuring the logo of your favorite team, to help shield your scalp, face, ears, and neck. Those areas can see high rates of sun damage. Consider taking extra care of the rest of your body with lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking clothing made of ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) fabric. This can include long-sleeve shirts, long pants, or long skirts that cover the most skin. Don’t forget a pair of UV-blocking sunglasses to protect the delicate skin surrounding your eyes.
Hydrate Properly
The event itself, including pre-game and post-game activities, often calls for spending hours outside. This environment brings a double whammy. In addition to UV exposure, fall winds can dehydrate your skin. Throw adult beverages and salty or sugary snacks into the mix, and it can deplete your skin’s hydration levels. Dehydrated skin has a weakened barrier function, which can make it less resilient to UV radiation. In addition to topical care, staying hydrated remains key when keeping your skin functioning at its natural baseline. Make sure to drink plenty of water and sports drinks throughout the day.
Let Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics Be Your Skincare Coach
To get the best skincare plan for game day, allow one of Olansky’s board-certified dermatologists to call the plays for your outdoor game.
If you’re dealing with the aftereffects of short- or long-term UV exposure, Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics offers products, treatments, and laser procedures for a variety of skin conditions, including brown spots, sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles. To learn more, schedule an appointment online.
Q&A Recap
Do you need sunscreen for outdoor sports events in the fall?
Yes. UV rays can cause skin damage year-round. Sitting outdoors for hours during autumn games, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV radiation peaks, subjects skin to prolonged exposure that requires dedicated protection.
What type of sunscreen is recommended for game day?
Dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. It should be applied 15 minutes before heading outdoors to allow proper skin absorption, and reapplied every two hours or immediately after sweating.
What is the best sun-protective clothing to wear to a football game or tailgate?
Effective physical barriers include broad-brimmed hats to protect the face, ears, and neck; UV-blocking sunglasses for the delicate eye area; and lightweight, breathable apparel made from ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) fabric, such as long-sleeve shirts and pants.
How can you repair sun damage caused by outdoor fall events?
The board-certified dermatologists at Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics can provide professional products, treatments, and laser procedures that address long-term UV damage, including sun spots.
