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Skin conditions
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Do nude sunbathers need extra sun protection?
Originally Published: May 07, 1999
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Hey Alice, I plan to do some nude sunbathing this summer. What extra precautions should I take with the areas that have never seen the light of day? Should I use a higher SPF on my "naughty parts" than on, say, my arms and legs? Sunkissed
Dear Sunkissed, Yes, indeed, total tanners, schmear those hot dogs, buns, and melons with PABA-free sun-blocking lotions that list SPFs (sun protection factors) of 15 to 30, keeping in mind that irritation of mucous membranes is possible. While you're at it, cover your well-behaved areas -- arms, legs, back, face, etc. -- with at least SPF 15. Penises, vulvas, breasts, nipples, buttocks, thighs, feet, and other sensitive skin spots that don't get out in the sun very often are poised to burn and blister faster than their more regularly exposed neighbors. Naked and clothed sunbathers alike are wise to take along umbrellas, cover-up clothes, sunglasses, and water for even more protection. Most dermatologists recommend reducing and limiting your time in the sun, or, better yet, abstaining from deliberate bronzing altogether. Sun aside, bare beachgoers might take note of the irritating potential of sand, pebbles, broken shells, and, dare Alice say, crabs. Sunscreen: What SPF should I use? and More sun protection in Alice's General Health archive have many more safer sunning tips.
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