As we gear up for pool days, backyard BBQs, and beach trips, here’s a summer survival tip you’ll want to remember: apply that sunscreen before you start sipping on your margaritas!

A recent study from Florida Atlantic University discovered something many of us have probably learned the hard way – drinking and sun protection don’t mix well. Around one in five people who got sunburned admitted that alcohol was a factor, with 22% confessing they’d had a few drinks when the burning happened.

Why does this happen? When we’re enjoying those summer cocktails, we’re less likely to remember to reapply sunscreen, more likely to misjudge how long we’ve been baking in the sun, and yes… sometimes more likely to pass out poolside! Not a good look for Monday morning at the office.

The research also highlighted other sunburn danger zones: 11% got burned while working outside, 10% while swimming, and 7% while exercising. But here’s the kicker – a whopping 43% of people got sunburned while “multitasking” with multiple outdoor activities.

Sound familiar, busy moms? We’re all guilty of trying to do it all – watching the kids in the pool while catching up on emails and enjoying a cool drink. But your skin pays the price!

So this summer, make applying sunscreen your FIRST step before outdoor festivities. Your future self (and your skin) will thank you!

Pro tip from the Froggy 102.7 team: Set a phone timer to remind you to reapply every 2 hours – even on cloudy days!

[Source: Study Finds via Wise Brother Media, “Pro Tip: Apply Sunblock Before You Start Drinking,” April 29, 2025]