Sun Safety Tips for Summer Fun

July 4, 2016      |      Posted on Posted in Total Well-Being
Sun Safety Tips for Summer Fun

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. A preventable cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or artificial sources.

The sun’s UV rays can damage skin in as little as 15 minutes. Follow these five recommendations to stay safe in the sun.

  • Wear Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and long pants provide the most protection from UV rays. Clothes made from tightly woven fabric offer the best protection. A wet T-shirt offers much less UV protection than a dry one and darker colors may offer more protection than lighter colors. If wearing this type of clothing isn’t practical, at least wear a T-shirt or beach cover-up.
  • Apply and Reapply Sunscreen: Put on a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher before going outside, even on slightly cloudy days. Sunscreen wears off. Reapply when staying out in the sun for more than two hours.
  • Limit Sun Exposure: The hours between 10 am and 4 pm are the most hazardous for UV exposure. Reduce the risk of skin damage by seeking shade under an umbrella, tree or other shelter during these hours.
  • Wear Sunglasses: Sunglasses protect the eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts. They also protect the tender skin around eyes from sun exposure. Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best protection.
  • Try a Wide Brim Hat: For the most protection, wear a hat with a brim all the way around that shades your face, ears and the back of your neck. Avoid straw hats with holes that let sunlight through.

Source: cdc.gov/cancer/skin

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