There’s a lot to love about spring and summer in Colorado. Gorgeous temperatures, brilliant sunshine, and an iconic landscape of mountains, rivers, dunes, and so much more make it the perfect place to make the most of the season. However, if there’s one downside to the warmer weather, it’s the greater risk of sunburn. As you spend more time enjoying the great outdoors, protect yourself and your family with these sun-safe tips to stay cool and comfortable in Colorado.

Pay Attention to the Elevation

The higher you go, the greater your risk of getting sunburned. If you’re heading up into the mountains to bike, hike, or just enjoy the view, take extra care with your sun protection. Pack plenty of sunscreen and try to wear clothing with UV protection or a tighter weave to block more of the sun’s rays. Wearing light layers is also a good idea, especially if you’re going high enough for the temperature to drop. Don’t get fooled by the cool air—you can still get sunburnt even in colder temperatures.

Accessorize Safely

The right accessories play a huge role in sun safety. Stay cool and comfortable in the Colorado sunshine with UV-filtering sunglasses. You can also add a hat to your outfit to provide some shade and keep yourself cool throughout the day. A wide-brim sun hat offers the most shade protection and can be a stylish addition to a summer outfit. If you’re going for a sporty vibe, try completing your outfit with a snapback or trucker hat instead.

Be Smart about Sunscreen

Everyone knows the importance of sunscreen, but do you know how to use it effectively? Look for broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks UVB rays as well as UVA rays. Pay attention to SPF, too. Most dermatologists recommend using sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 or 30, but your specific ideal rating will depend on your skin’s sensitivity. If you have a skin condition or are at higher risk for skin cancer, talk to your doctor about the best sunscreen to use.

Finally, apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading outside so your skin has time to absorb it. Remember to keep reapplying throughout the day, too!