Yesterday the temperature in our car read 101!  It was definitely HOT and it’s only May.  Here in Southern California we’re bracing for a very dry and hot summer!  We live within minutes of the beach so we’ll spend lots of time sunning and swimming and relaxing!  Because it’s so hot, I never really know how much of the sun’s harmful rays we’re all being exposed to.  I am diligent about applying and reapplying sunscreen, but wouldn’t it be nice to know if we’re “safe” from the sun’s harmful rays?

I recently had an opportunity to try out SunMate by Purely Products. This hand held device measures the intensity of the sun’s strength, which allows you to then decide if you need to either wear more protection, or perhaps get out of the sun at that particular time when the sun’s rays are the most harmful.  With more than 1,000,000 new cases of skin cancer in the US in 2009 (and we’re not even half-way through the year), it would behoove all of us to take whatever precautions we can.

I think the product is most useful for those times when it’s cloudy or overcast and you think that your family is safe from the sun’s rays.  You may not know this, but UV rays can penetrate clouds which means you can get sun exposure and damage on a cloudy or overcast day.

SunMate is small enough to toss in a purse or diaper bag and easy to use.  Simply press the button located on the device when you’re at your desired location and LED indicators will light up between 1 and 5 depending on the intensity of the UV light.  SunMate retails for $19.95 and is available for purchase online.

For more fabulous fun summer products, visit Mommy Mandy & Mommy Goggles!