For us here in Nigeria, the sun is a constant part of our everyday life, whether you’re commuting, going to the market, or just running errands.
Sometimes, just a few minutes outside can leave your skin feeling hot, irritated, or a few shades darker.
Over time, this daily exposure can cause stubborn dark spots, premature aging, and even increase the risk of skin diseases.
We can’t avoid the sun, but we can control the damage it causes to our skin. The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to stay protected.
Let’s begin with the first one: knowing the hours when the sun is strongest.
1. Know the Peak Sun Hours
The sun is usually strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Spending too much time outdoors during these hours increases your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
If possible, schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when the rays are less intense.
2. Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Sunscreen isn’t just for people with lighter skin. Even with dark skin, UV rays can cause sunburn, dark patches, and early aging.
Apply it generously to your face, neck, and exposed skin, and reapply every two hours if you’ll be outside or sweating.
3. Wear Protective Clothing
The clothes you wear can protect you just as much as sunscreen. Light, see-through fabrics like chiffon or lace may look stylish, but they let the sun pass through.
Instead, go for denser fabrics like cotton, ankara, or even darker-coloured materials that naturally block more of the rays.
Traditional outfits like agbada, buba, or even a simple long wrapper can double as protection if the fabric is thick enough.
Research shows that tightly woven, dark fabrics reduce UV exposure better than thin or pale ones.
4. Use Shade Whenever You Can
Sometimes the easiest protection is just to stay out of direct sunlight.
Sitting under a tree, carrying an umbrella, or resting under a shed at the bus stop can reduce how much UV hits your skin. Market stalls, verandas, and even canopies at events can also give you shade.
5. Wear Hats and Sunglasses
A wide-brim hat is more than just fashion; it shields your face, ears, and neck from direct sun. Even a simple cap is better than nothing, though a hat with a broad brim gives more coverage.
If you’re buying locally, choose a reputable optical shop or ask an optometrist rather than relying on unlabeled market pairs.
6. Hydrate to Protect Your Skin
The sun can leave your body dehydrated, and when your body lacks water, your skin shows it first; it gets dry, dull, and more prone to damage.
Drinking plenty of water makes your skin look alive and refreshed. If plain water feels boring, you can mix it up with fruits like watermelon, oranges, or cucumbers, which are also packed with water.
Staying hydrated from the inside is just as important as what you apply to your skin.
7. Be Careful with Skin-Lightening Products
Many creams and soaps sold in Nigeria promise “instant whitening” or “faster toning,” but some contain harmful ingredients like mercury or very strong steroids.
These not only damage your skin’s natural barrier but also make your skin more sensitive to the sun, causing burns, uneven patches, and even long-term health risks.
If you must use a lightning product, check the ingredients carefully and avoid unlabelled or mixed creams from local markets or online vendors.
8. Eat Skin-Protective Foods
What you eat helps your skin fight sun damage.
Include fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and E, such as carrots, tomatoes, oranges, pawpaw, and leafy greens, plus nuts/seeds, and oily fish (like tilapia, mackerel, and sardines) for omega-3s in your diet.
These nutrients act as antioxidants, reduce inflammation, and can help the skin recover from UV exposure over time.
Studies have shown that diets rich in carotenoids, polyphenols, and omega-3 fatty acids can provide measurable photoprotective benefits.
9. Check Your Skin Regularly
Sometimes we notice changes on our skin but ignore them, thinking they will “just go away.”
However, symptoms such as new moles, dark patches, persistent wounds, or sudden changes in skin texture may be warning signs of damage.
Checking your skin from time to time helps you catch issues early. Doctors say early detection makes treatment easier and more effective.
After your bath, take a minute to look at your arms, legs, face, and even your back in the mirror if you can.
If you notice anything unusual that doesn’t fade after a few weeks, don’t just rub shea butter or lightening cream on it; see a healthcare professional.
Summary
Healthy skin is not about expensive products; it’s about simple, consistent care. The sun can be harsh, but with the right habits, your skin can stay protected and glowing.
What about you? Have you noticed how the sun affects your skin? Or do you already have a personal routine that works for you?
Drop your comments below.
Researched by Victoria Odueso
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