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By Quinn McDonald
Summer means corn on the cob, fresh berries, and streets filled with white tents—the sure signs of summer shows. But as much as shows mean laughter and business, they also bring stifling heat. How do you protect yourself from the heat and UV rays?
Tents Can Provide Protection
Start with the right tent. Make sure you choose a tent that protects you from UV rays; not all of them do. Tents that have canvas walls do, but they can be dark. Choose a tent with a top for both light and UV protection. EZ-Up claims its tent protects you from 99% of all UV rays. Archtop’s tents have the choice of a UV-protecting top. Craft Hut says the material in the roof lets in light so you don’t need a vent in the roof. If your tent is made of lightweight material that isn’t waterproof, it may not be sunproof, either. Best to ask.
Tents with vents help air circulate and make you feel cool. If you have electric power at a show, purchase a clip-on fan, and attach it so you get the breeze. For about $25, you can keep the air moving, which can be a lifesaver at a show.
Sunblock—Apply, Then Reapply
It’s tempting to roll up the sides and let the breeze in, but if the sun comes in along with breeze, reach for the sunscreen. You can get a severe sunburn even on overcast days. The sun’s rays are at their worst during peak selling times—10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so plan ahead. Sunscreen is a must, and it has to be reapplied, because even sweat-proof promises won’t hold up under the unconscious touching of nose, chin and hands. Start with your hands. Sun ages your hands quickly. The skin may be tough, but because hands are most often exposed to the elements, they show age quickly. Prepare ahead and use a hand cream that contains a sunscreen, even in winter. When you apply the sunscreen, reach for a high SPF. Don’t forget the tops of your ears, the back of your knees, and your feet and toes. If your hair is thinning, wear a hat with a brim. The best way to judge the hat’s effectiveness is to make sure that your nose and the back of your neck are shaded by the brim. Baseball caps are easy to find but don’t offer enough protection.
