Sun Safety Tips

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the culprit in sun-related skin damage. UV radiation reaches the earth at different wavelengths, each with different effects on the skin. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause skin cancer. UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburns. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin. They can contribute to sunburn, and they can also produce the wrinkling, sagging and broken blood vessels that most of us think of as age-related. Not only can unprotected sun exposure damage your skin’s appearance, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation over 90 percent of skin cancers are due to sun exposure.
The good news is that you can be safe in the sun and still enjoy all the benefits of a healthy, active, outdoor lifestyle. Here are some facts and tips:


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Remember that every exposure to the sun can be damaging to the skin. It’s important to limit your sun exposure no matter the season or time of day. Sun safety is necessary year-round, even if it’s cold or snowy. And don’t forget that snow, sand and water will reflect sunlight to your skin.

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One of the best ways to protect your skin from sun exposure is to wear a broad spectrum sunscreen (UVA/UVB) with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher every day. It’s easy to remember if you make sunscreen application part of your morning skin care routine.

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Make sure to apply your sunscreen liberally—including frequently missed areas such as your lips, ears, hands and feet. Sunscreens need to be reapplied frequently throughout the day. Some are not photostable, which means that they start to break down when exposed to sunlight and need to be reapplied more frequently to maintain their original level of protection.

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You don’t have to sunbathe to get too much sun. Brief exposures add up. Even if you spend most of your day indoors, remember: UV rays can penetrate windows. You can receive a skin-damaging exposure even when riding in your car! And if tanning booths seem a safer alternative, you are still exposing yourself to these damaging UV rays! Sun damage accumulates over a lifetime, so teach your children the importance of sun safety beginning at an early age.

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Daily sunscreen use is one of the most important things you can do to protect your and your children’s skin when outdoors. Remember the sun is strongest between the hours of 10AM and 4PM. So try to stay in the shade as much as possible during these hours and cover up with broad-brimmed hats and UV-blocking glasses.