Summer is here! As much as we love the warm weather, it’s important to remember to practice sun safety. Skin cancer rates are on the rise in the U.S., where it is the most common type of cancer. Just in the past year alone, one-third of the adult population has been sunburned at least once. That lobster-red look is a clear sign of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays – a known cause of skin cancer, which can impact any age, gender, or race.
Our Sun Safety Tips
Avoid the Sun’s UV Rays
- Seek shade and stay out of the sun, if you can, when UV rays are strongest (from 10am to 4pm.)
- Be extra careful at higher altitudes where skin burns faster.
- Limit exposure to water, sand, and concrete – surfaces that reflect light.
- Use sun protection even on cloudy days, when certain types of UV rays can be stronger.
- Rely on diet and supplements to get your vitamin D, not the sun.
- Wear hats and sunglasses.
Most Importantly: Wear Sunscreen!
Don’t use a product that combines sunscreen and insect repellent. Reapplying it will expose you to too much of the repellent’s ingredients. Also, avoid spray tans and bronzers – they won’t protect your skin from UV rays.
Do choose sunscreens that:
- block both UVA and UVB rays.
- are labeled with sun protection factor (SPF) 30 or higher.
- are water resistant – they’re more protective when you sweat.
- are products you will use consistently.
Wear sunscreen every day, even if you plan to be outside a short time. For best results, apply it generously 15 to 30 minutes before you go outside to all exposed areas – don’t forget your feet and ears (a lip balm works best for your lips.) Always reapply after swimming or sweating and about every two hours or as often as the package suggests.
Questions? Contact us!