It’s football time in Tennessee! Many southerners’ favorite fall tradition is watching football and tailgating. However, this weekly tradition can take a toll on your skin. Here are your gameday essentials – stadium approved!

Sunscreen: Skin protection is important in every season. Apply SPF 15 or above to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Don’t forget commonly missed areas, like your face, back of the neck and ears.

Lip Balm: Lips need protection, too! Many tinted or colored lip balms come with SPF in them. SPF lip balms not only protect the lips from sun damage, they keep them from getting dry or cracked from the wind or cold.

Hand lotion: Whether waving pom-poms, holding drinks or high-fiving after a touchdown, your hands can easily dry out on gameday. Carry a small container of hand lotion to help trap the moisture, especially if you use hand sanitizer.

Sunglasses: Eyes are easily damaged by UV rays. Pack your favorite pair (with UV protection) for those times when it’s too bright to see the ball.

Water is also an essential gameday item. Stadiums can trap in heat, sometimes making it feel much hotter than it truly is. Staying hydrated is essential to both your safety and your skin’s health. Bottles are not allowed in stadiums, so make sure to drink a few before entering and pick one up at the concession stand for the game. Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group by calling (865)690-9467 for all of your dermatology needs.