Just like humans, horses can get sunburned. Sunburns can cause discomfort, pain, and even skin damage. It can lead to blistering, peeling, and open sores, making the horse more susceptible to infections. Prolonged exposure to the sun's UV radiation increases the risk of skin cancer in horses, including humans, along with skin tumors, like cell carcinoma and melanoma, that can develop particularly in areas with sparse hair or pink skin. Proactive sun protection helps minimize these ricks. Here are some measures you can take to protect both you and your horse from the sun’s harmful rays!

Sun Protection for Your Horse

Provide Shade : Ensure that your horse has access to ample shade throughout the day, especially during the peak sun hours. This can be achieved by offering natural shade from trees or creating artificial shade with shelters or shade cloths.

Use Fly Masks : Invest in a good-quality fly mask that provides UV protection. Fly masks cover the horse's face, including the sensitive areas around the eyes and ears, shielding them from direct sunlight. Cashel’s Crusader Long Nose Fly Mask protects the eyes and nose from not only flys but blocks out 70% of UV rays!

Apply Sunscreen : Apply a horse-specific sunscreen to exposed areas of your horse's body, particularly areas with sparse hair or pink skin. Be sure to choose a product that is safe for equine use and consult with a veterinarian if you are unsure. KineticVet EquiShield SB has aloe vera in it to soothe sun damaged skin, naturally repels insects with citronella oil and is SPF 30!

Consider Light-Colored Fly Sheets : Light-colored fly sheets can help protect your horse's body from the sun's rays while keeping them cool. Look for sheets made from lightweight and breathable materials like the Professional’s Choice Theramic Fly Sheet, durable, lightweight with a matching neck cover - sold separately.

Limit Turnout During Peak Hours : If possible, try to schedule turnout times for your horse during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not as intense. This reduces their exposure to direct sunlight and decreases the risk of sunburn.

Coat Conditioners : Use coat conditioners that also offer UV protection. These products can not only help repair coat condition but also provides an additional layer of sun protection for your horse's skin. Like Horse Grooming Solutions-Ahi Sunflower Suncoat, not only can it repair bleached skin, stop hair degradation, but protects against UV-A and UV-B rays!

Monitor Grazing Areas : Some plants can cause photosensitivity in horses, making their skin more susceptible to sunburn. Make sure the pasture or grazing areas are free from toxic plants like St. John's wort, buckwheat, or alsike clover.

Hydration : Ensure your horse has access to clean, fresh water at all times. Make sure that your horse replenishes their electrolytes lost by excessive sweating with electrolyte products like Apple-DEX, DuraLyte or Apple Elite, which will help encourage healthy water intake. Proper hydration helps to maintain healthy skin and can mitigate the effects of sun exposure.

Regular Grooming : Regularly grooming your horse helps to remove dirt, debris, and dead skin cells that may increase the risk of sunburn. It also allows you to closely examine their skin for any abnormalities or signs of sun damage.

Light Colored Horses

Lighter colored horses, particularly those with pink skin, tend to be more sensitive to the sun's rays compared to darker colored horses. The color of a horse's coat and skin is determined by the presence and concentration of pigments, specifically melanin. Melanin provides natural protection against the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Darker colored horses, such as those with black, bay, or dark brown coats, generally have higher concentrations of melanin in their skin and hair, offering them more natural protection against the sun. This higher melanin content helps absorb and block a greater amount of UV radiation, reducing the risk of sunburn and related issues.

On the other hand, lighter colored horses, such as those with gray, palomino, or white coats, often have less melanin in their skin and hair. This makes them more susceptible to the sun's rays and more prone to sunburn and other sun-related problems. Horses with pink skin, in particular, have little to no natural protection against UV radiation since they lack melanin in those areas. Therefore, it's crucial to take extra precautions and provide additional sun protection for lighter colored horses, especially those with pink skin.

Sun Protection for the Rider

Wear Sunscreen : Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Make sure to reapply every few hours, especially if you sweat or spend an extended period outdoors.

Cover Up : Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your skin to minimize direct sun exposure. Opt for breathable long-sleeved shirts like Cinch ArenaFlex or Ariat VentTEK, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats to protect your arms, legs, and face. Consider clothing with built-in UV protection and even if you’re wearing a cap or a vented American Straw, you’ll want to still wear sunscreen to protect your most sensitive and exposed areas from the sun.

Use Sunglasses : Invest in a good pair of sunglasses like BEX that offer UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays to safeguard your eyes from harmful radiation.

Time Your Rides Wisely : Try to schedule your rides during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the peak sun hours when the UV radiation is strongest. If possible, plan your riding routes in areas that offer natural shade, such as tree-lined trails. Take breaks under shade trees or find sheltered areas when you need a rest.

Hydrate : Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your rides. Dehydration can occur quickly, especially in hot weather, and proper hydration helps regulate body temperature and overall well-being.

Check Your Skin : Regularly monitor your skin for any changes, such as new moles, freckles, or spots. If you notice any abnormalities or concerns, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Note : Be aware of reflective surfaces: Keep in mind that surfaces like sand, water, or snow can reflect the sun's rays and intensify your exposure. Take extra precautions by increasing your sun protection measures when riding in these environments.

Remember, sun protection is essential for long-term health. By implementing these tips, you can enjoy your rides while minimizing the risks associated with excessive sun exposure - a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring the health and well-being of both horse and rider.