Since they are closer to the equator some countries have stronger ultraviolent (UV) radiation than others, like here in the Dominican Republic, which significantly increases the chance of sunburn and serious skin damage if you are repeatedly exposed to the sunlight here. To keep this from happening there are a few things that can be done, and kept in mind, regarding skincare.

Skincare Using Sunscreen

In order to get adequate protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays you should use enough SPF 15, or higher, rated sunscreen to form a film on the area of skin that will be exposed to the sun. It is important to make sure to apply it 30 minutes before you go out into the sun so that there is time for your skin to absorb it. Also, sunscreen should be reapplied every 2-4 hours or after any activity that wears it off (like swimming, drying off with a towel, exercising, or perspiration) to avoid getting burnt and sun damaged skin. Daily sunscreen use effectively protects areas of the skin exposed to sunlight from getting burnt.
A cloudy Dominican day only filters out 20 percent of ultraviolet rays; leaving a remaining 80 percent that can cause a serious burn if no precautions are taken. So, if you are concerned with skincare, make sure to put sunscreen on even if you’re not going to be in direct sunlight.

Sun Tanning Tips (more…)

safe dominican water

Well, that’s pretty much standard for most foreign travel and the Dominican Republic is no exception to the rule. However it goes a little further than that. You likewise need to be careful with anything washed that you will be eating and don’t forget that the fancy drink you sip on the beach likely has ice in it. Here are a few tips to help keep you away from the local clinic.

Water: Most of the larger motels and all-inclusive resorts are well aware of tourist sensitivity to the water and they don’t want you sick. If you are in a heavy tourist area and the restaurant or hotel is a larger one that caters to tourists, then the ice you get in your Piña Colada, Rum and Coke, etc. is likely safe. If in doubt ask them if they use bottled water for their ice.

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