Stay Safe at the Beach

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Shady Lady

By Susan Hall

Outsmart beach bummers, from swimmer’s ear to jellyfish stings.

For extra protection from the sun’s rays, get a beach umbrella with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50 or higher, says Jessica Wu, MD, a Los Angeles–based dermatologist.

One we like: the Tommy Bahama 6½-foot Beach Umbrella with Tilt UPF 100+ ($65; Amazon.com). Don’t have a UPF-rated umbrella? Choose one made of dark, tightly woven material. “If you can see through it, the sun’s rays can ‘see’ your skin,” Dr. Wu says.

Next: Escape strong currents