Sun Safety

5 Ways to Practice Safe Sun this Memorial Day

With Memorial Day right around the corner, chances are you’ll be spending some time outside. Whether it’s a cloudy day or the sun is shining, skin protection is essential to your health. Check out these 5 ways to practice sun safety!

1. Apply Sunscreen
   Sunscreen should be applied at least 15 minutes before initial sun exposure and reapplied every two hours. If you go swimming you should re-apply sunscreen immediately after. The American Cancer Society recommends a sunscreen with “broad spectrum” protection and an SPF of at least 30. Certain types of makeup and lip balm offer 15 SPF protections. Please keep in mind sunscreen does expire!
2. Cover Up
   Certain types of clothing and accessories can help protect your skin from the sun. We recommend wearing a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection, and long sleeves and pants whenever possible. If long clothing isn’t practical, wear a t-shirt or cover-up combined with sunscreen.
3. Find Shade
   Find a shady area to limit the direct exposure to the sun. The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10AM and 4PM, so coverage is highly recommended during those times. If you’re headed to the beach where shade isn’t available, try bringing a beach umbrella for some protection.
4. Avoid Tanning
   If you intentionally lay in the sun, even if you apply sunscreen, your skin is still at risk so it’s important to exercise caution and tan in moderation. The same is true for “fake” tanning; UV radiation in tanning devices poses serious health risks and in fact is more dangerous than previously thought. Exposure to UV radiation, whether from the sun or indoor tanning beds, can increase your risk of skin cancer and can cause skin burns, premature skin aging and even eye damage. The more you protect your skin now, the healthier it will be later.
5. Talk About It
   Today a lot of people have the power to influence others. Whether it’s through TV shows, the internet, or by their own actions, people, especially young children, take notice. A good way to encourage people to practice sun safety is to first demonstrate it yourself and then talk about it! Encourage others to be sun safe by using these tips and talking openly with them about the risks.
    

Memorial Day is the perfect time to exercise sun and skin safety. As Skin Cancer Awareness Month comes to an end, we encourage you to use these tips throughout the year, not just in the spring and summer months!