Having the perfect beach wedding is a dream for many couples – sun, sand, and beautiful blue waters as a backdrop. But hosting your nuptials outdoors also means an added risk of sunburn! Although you should never let skin damage ruin your special day, it can put a damper on things if you or any of your guests get burned during the festivities. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you minimize the risk of sunburn by providing our top tips so that everyone can stay safe in the heat and enjoy their beach wedding without worries.
Say “I do” without a sunburn: wedding tips to keep you safe in the sun
- Choose a location with ample shade: When selecting the venue for your beach wedding, choose one with plenty of trees or umbrellas for extra protection from the sun. Having a spot to cool off and take breaks from direct sunlight can make all the difference in preventing sunburns.
- Wear protective clothing: Sun-protective clothing is essential for any outdoor event, but especially during beach weddings when exposure is inevitable. Look for lightweight clothes made out of tightly woven fabrics such as linen or cotton that provide UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) ratings of 50+. In addition, dark colors offer more protection than light colors, so opt for navy blues, black, or even bright pinks and purples if you’re feeling bold.
- Apply sunscreen often: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends at least a SPF 30 broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA and UVB rays, but depending on the climate you’ll be in, a higher level may be necessary. Also, remember to reapply every two hours or after swimming – water can remove up to 80% of your sunscreen’s effectiveness!
- Limit time in the sun: Set aside some time for pictures and activities before or after peak daylight hours (10am–2pm). Limiting prolonged exposure during midday when the sun is strongest can reduce your chances of getting burned. Additionally, consider taking breaks if you’re feeling too hot or exhausted.
- Stay hydrated: Make sure everyone in the wedding party stays hydrated throughout the day to avoid heat exhaustion and dehydration, which can increase your risk of sunburn. Carry water bottles with you and encourage guests to drink regularly throughout the event. Lastly, make sure you’re eating enough healthy snacks for energy!
Fix sun damage on your skin before your wedding
One of the most important steps in skincare before your wedding is to repair any sun damage. Sun exposure can lead to discoloration, premature aging, and other skin problems that can be difficult to overcome. Fortunately, you can take a few key steps to help fix sun damage on your skin before the big day.
The first step is to use sunscreen when outdoors. SPF 30 or higher should be applied daily, even on cloudy days and during winter when the sun’s rays are still strong enough to cause harm. Make sure you reapply often throughout the day if you will be outside for an extended period. Wear protective clothing such as sunglasses and hats as well whenever possible.
The next step is to use products with antioxidants and anti-aging ingredients, such as retinol or vitamin C. These help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve overall skin tone. You can find these ingredients in many moisturizers, serums, and creams.
It’s also important to visit your dermatologist for professional treatments. For example, chemical peels can help exfoliate the skin’s surface layers, removing discolored cells and revealing brighter skin underneath. Laser therapy can target areas of sun damage more precisely, helping erase spots and even out skin tone. Make sure you talk to your doctor about what kind of treatment would be best for your particular needs before starting any procedure.
Finally, ensure you get plenty of rest and drink lots of water. Staying well-rested and hydrated will help your skin heal faster and look better overall. Follow these tips, and you’ll be ready to walk down the aisle with glowing, healthy skin!