Whether you're headed to the beach, going to the neighborhood barbecue, working on the yard, or cooling off at the pool, it's important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Overexposure to UV rays can lead to sunburn, accelerated skin aging and skin cancer. Here are some tips to keep you safe in the sun this summer:
Wear Sunscreen - Use a water resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides 100% UVA and UVB protection with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to going outside and re-apply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and immediately after swimming or sweating. Make sure to apply generously to all exposed skin. Don't forget your ears, nose, lips, neck, hairline and tops of feet!
Wear Protective Clothing - Wearing wide-brimmed hats and lightweight, sun-shielding coverings will provide crucial protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. Look for water-wicking, quick-drying, highly breathable fabrics. Your clothing is the main form of UV protection next to sunscreen.
Seek Shade - The sun's UV rays are strongest between 10am-4pm. Seek shade during these times. Use extra caution near water and sand because they reflect the sun's rays which increases your chance of sunburn and other damage to the skin and eyes. A good rule of thumb is to find a shady spot whenever your shadow appears to be shorter than you are.
Wear Sunglasses - Your eyes need protection from the sun's harmful UV rays too! The darkness of the lenses is not a good indicator of UV protection. The UV protection on sunglasses comes from an invisible chemical applied to the lenses. Look for sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection.
Check the UV index - Visit www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindex.html to check the UV index for your area. This quick search will let you know if you are at risk for overexposure to the sun.
Get a Skin Exam - Examine your skin every month for anything new or changing and see your physician every year for a professional skin exam. An annual skin exam should be as routine and preventative as going to the dentist.
Increase Awareness - There is no such thing as a safe tan. Contrary to popular belief, getting a tan will not protect your skin from sunburn or other skin damage. In an effort to increase the public's understanding of skin cancer and motivate people to change their behavior to prevent and detect skin cancer, the American Academy of Dermatology recently launched the SPOT Skin Cancer, public awareness initiative. Visit the SPOT Skin www.SpotSkinCancer.org, to learn more.
Increase Awareness - There is no such thing as a safe tan. Contrary to popular belief, getting a tan will not protect your skin from sunburn or other skin damage. In an effort to increase the public's understanding of skin cancer and motivate people to change their behavior to prevent and detect skin cancer, the American Academy of Dermatology recently launched the SPOT Skin Cancer, public awareness initiative. Visit the SPOT Skin www.SpotSkinCancer.org, to learn more.
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