How to Have a Sun-Safe Summer

Summer is here and it’s natural to want to get out in the sun on warm days. Who doesn’t want to be outside sunbathing, swimming, playing catch on the beach or barbecuing in the backyard? While summer means fun in the sun, it’s important to protect yourself and your skin.

Ultraviolent rays from the sun and other sources like tanning beds are the No. 1 cause of skin cancer. Avoid consequences of overexposure to the sun like sunburns, premature aging, wrinkling and skin cancer including melanoma by practicing proper sun protection. We’re here to help make sure you’re not getting too much of a good thing.

Cover Up

When you’re out in the sun, wear clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect the skin as much as possible. Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block at least 99 percent of UV light. The hours between 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. daylight savings time or 9 a.m.– 3 p.m. standard time are the most hazardous for UV exposure in the continental United States. UV rays are greatest during the late spring and early summer in North America. Loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants made from tightly woven fabric offer the best protection from the sun’s UV rays. A wet t-shirt offers much less UV protection than a dry one. Darker colors may offer more protection than light colors.

Sunscreen

Use sunscreen with a sun protective factor of 15 or higher and both UVA and UVB protection. Sunscreen wears off, put it on again if you stay out in the sun for more than two hours, and after you swim. Check the sunscreen’s expiration date; if it doesn’t have a date, it has a shelf life of no more than three years.

Seek Shade

Especially during mid-day hours, seek shade. Reduce your risk of skin damage and skin cancer by seeking shade under an umbrella, tree or other shelter. Be careful at the beach. Water and sand can reflect and intensify the sun’s rays; it’s important to be extra careful and take breaks from the sun if necessary.

Avoid Tanning Beds

Tanning beds, similar to the sun, cause skin cancer. If you’re looking to tan in the winter months, consider a spray or self-tanning product — but continue to use sunscreen.