With summer in full swing, people are enjoying the outdoors and spending more time in the sun, and while being outside is a fantastic way to spend the day, you need to be careful of the sun’s harmful rays. Skin cancer is a major concern now, but many people are also worried about the kind of chemicals that are added to sunscreen and whether they’re healthy for their bodies. These five natural ways to stay safe in the sun will help you find ways to enjoy the sun and keep your skin safe–naturally!

1) Cover Up

Many people forget this integral step and end up with a nasty sunburn to deal with later. Covering up doesn’t have to be uncomfortable and many clothing stores sell light, cotton clothes for summertime cover. In addition, there are now many companies that sell sun protective clothing that reflects harmful UV rays from the sun. For fair skinned people, this can be a lifesaver, but if you’re darker or don’t burn easily, one of the best ways you can keep yourself safe is by wearing a hat and a light, long-sleeved shirt during your time out in the sun. No matter what, if you’re going to be in the sun, be aware of how much skin is exposed and dress to keep your skin safe.

2) Stay In The Shade

Another great way to keep safe in the sun is to find shade, especially if you’re going to be in the sun for long periods of time. This can be accomplished by seeking out trees or the shade from buildings to stand in but, if you’re away from any cover, you can make your own. Umbrellas aren’t only for rain and are a great way to stay protected from the sun, especially for children or the elderly who can get heatstroke easier than most. Pop out that umbrella and make your own shade. You might get some strange looks, but it’ll be worth it when you don’t have a sunburn at the end of the day and are able to keep your skin safe.

3) Avoid The Hottest Part Of The Day

If at all possible, stay out of the sun when it’s at its peak (typically in the middle of the day till late afternoon). When the sun is at its peak, it’s also at its strongest–which means shade will be harder to find. Retreat indoors or under the cover of shade when the sun is at its strongest and keep out of those harmful rays.

4) Drink Lots Of Water

It’s very important to make sure that everyone is staying well hydrated in the sun. The best way to ensure that you avoid heat stroke and help minimize sun burns is by staying hydrated. Hydration means more than just drinking water when you’re thirsty. If you know you and your family are going to be out in the sun, start drinking water before you go outdoors. This will ensure that you don’t start the day already dehydrated, as the sun will only exasperate this issue. During the day, you can also incorporate foods that have a lot of water naturally into your meals–like watermelon, strawberries, lettuce, and celery. These foods will help you and your family stay hydrated without having to drink a ton of water.

5) Use A Zinc-Based Sunscreen Or Try Coconut Oil

Finally, seek out natural sunscreens that use zinc oxide as an ingredient. This mineral does a fantastic job of blocking the sun’s harmful rays and doesn’t come with a huge warning sign. Make sure to slather on your zinc oxide sunscreen before you plan on going out in the sun and reapply if you’re going to be exercising or sweating a lot. For short stints in the sun, coconut oil naturally repels the sun’s harmful UV rays, though its protection is decidedly weaker than a zinc oxide based natural sunscreen. Coconut oil is also a great way to ensure that your skin is moisturized (another way to avoid burns) and also as aftercare following prolonged exposure to the sun.

Being sun-smart will go a long way to keeping your body healthy and your skin safe. All it takes to stay safe in the sun is a little planning and some common sense–combined with these five natural ways to stay safe, you’ll be having fun in the sun and staying protected all summer long!