How to Avoid Sunburn and Bug Bites This Summer

We anticipate summer for bringing months of sun, family and relaxation.  It’s a time for barbeques and summer nights out on the patio or deck. In the summer, there shouldn’t be any need to worry. 

When trying to avoid burning up in the sun, or escaping the huge, red welts that appear from pesky mosquitos the next day after trying to enjoy a night out, it can be easy to become defeated.  Sunburn is almost expected during the hot season and can put future summer days on hold by keeping you inside. Annoying bug bites can make you hesitant to enjoy more time outdoors. 

With only three short months of summer to enjoy, it’s important that everyone gets the most out of their season with the least frustration. These tips will help you eliminate your summertime casualties, including painful burns and itchy bug bites, and enhance your overall summertime experience.

Protect Yourself From Nasty Sunburns

Avoid painful sunburns and still enjoy the warm weather with these three tips to ensure you’re staying cool this summer:

1. Get Smart with Smartphone Apps: Apps for your smartphone such as Sun Zap and others will calculate how long you’ve been in the sun and when you should reapply sunscreen, based on the UV Index in your area. 

2. Check Your Sunscreen: Ever get a nasty sunburn on the one tiny patch of skin you missed with sunscreen? Not anymore! Currently available for preorder, the Sunscreenr will show you through a lens how much sunscreen you have applied, and where you’ve missed a spot for even, burn-free coverage. 

3. Have it Made in the Shade: What a better way than under a retractable awning to avoid damaging UV Rays? A shady space is the perfect way to stay outside during the warm summer months, while also not sweating or feeling the direct sun beating on your skin. Plus with Somfy's myLink app you can control your motorized awning from your smartphone or tablet! 

Bye Bye Bug Bites!

Outdoor parties are always fun…until uninvited guests buzz into the party. Here are some ways to get rid of bug bites, and fast! 

1. A Solution for Itchy Bites: Try mixing baking soda with water to create a paste and place it over the bite to reduce itching. Apple Cider Vinegar works as well and will have the same effect to reduce any itching. 

2. When Red is Not Your Color: To reduce redness, try using honey over the affected area because honey is proven to have anti-inflammatory properties. That, along with coconut oil, can help lighten the bite on the skin.

3. Uninvite the Bugs Altogether: Another solution for your summertime needs are Somfy-powered motorized screens.  Exterior screens offer the view of sitting outdoors, but under a shaded surface and without the threat of bugs. Motorized exterior screens can help you experience outdoor living without the associated negatives. 

Get the most out of your summer this year, without sunburn or bug bites, because you deserve it! 

Visit our Dealer Locator to search for Somfy Experts in your area to help you find Somfy-powered solutions, including myLink™!