Summer was made for relaxing — and soaking up some vitamin D from the sun’s rays! But too much time in warm weather can lead to such warm-weather hazards as sunburn, heat stroke, bug bites and dehydration. Use these tips to stay cool and healthy while you enjoy the season.

1. Watch the time

Plan your outdoor activities when the sun’s rays are less intense. This is usually before 10 AM and after 4 PM. Sun exposure and hot temps during the day can also lead to sunburn, heat exhaustion or, even worse, heatstroke. If you feel queasy, dizzy or overly sweaty, these are signs you’re overheating. Head indoors to a cool room.

2. Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Not drinking enough fluids can lead to dehydration, which can make you feel tired or dizzy. Fruits like watermelon and peaches and veggies like cucumbers are filled with water, too. Choose them if you’re looking for a snack.

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3. Dress for the weather 

Wear light, loose-fitting cotton fabrics. It will help keep your skin cooler. Putting on sunglasses and a hat with a brim can help keep your face from getting burned, too.

4. Keep the bugs away

Remember to apply insect repellent if you’re going to be outside, especially at night. You can also cover up around grassy areas or standing water, where bugs like mosquitos are most likely to be. Wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants instead of shorts.

5. Pick the right SPF

Look for a sunscreen that’s SPF 30 or higher and says “broad-spectrum” on the label. This means it protects against both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Both types of rays can cause skin cancer.

6. Apply sunscreen early and often

Put sunscreen on at least 30 minutes before going outside to let it absorb into your skin. Reapply the sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

7. Mind your medications

Some common medications can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, causing it to burn easily. These include prescription drugs like some diabetes medications and statins. Even some popular over-the-counter (OTC) remedies like ibuprofen, naproxen and many antihistamines can increase your risk of a sunburn.¹ Ask your primary care provider (PCP) for more information about your medications and their side effects.

Save a trip to the pharmacy. 

You can order up to a 100-day supply of certain medications shipped right to you.

Log in to your member website at AllinaHealthAetnaMedicare.com/Login to learn more.    

Did you know? 

All Allina Health I Aetna members have a quarterly OTC benefit. You can use it to get sunscreen, itch relief cream and other approved OTC products. 

When you’re ready to use your quarterly OTC benefit, here are some shopping options:

• In person at participating locations. Check CVS.com/storelocator for the nearest store.
• Online at CVS.com/otchs/myorder
• By phone at 1-833-331-1573 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, between 9 AM and 8 PM. Speak to a live representative. You can also order 24/7 via our automated interactive voice response (IVR) system. Have your ID and order ready when placing your order by phone. 

¹U.S. Pharmacist: The Pharmacist’s Resource for Clinical Excellence. These medications take the fun out of the sun. August 28, 2019. Accessed March 15, 2023.

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