Summer Skin Safety

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Ninety percent of all skin cancer is caused by UV exposure from the sun.  Although it’s not realistic to prevent all sun exposure, there are ways to protect yourself from harmful, cancer-causing UV rays.  Read on to find out how. 
 

Wear Sunscreen
Apply sunscreen everyday. In either rain or shine, UV rays are still present in any type of
weather. Choose sunscreen that protects both UVA and UVB rays with a SPF of 30 or higher.  UVA rays cause wrinkling and aging and UVB rays are associated with burning.  Both types of rays should be avoided if at all possible. 

 
Wear a Hat
Choose a fashionable, wide-brimmed hat that shields your skin from the sun’s harsh rays.  You’ll protect your face and neck while looking stylish on the beach.

Limit Your Outdoor Time
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.  Be sure to up your sun protection or seek shade during these hours. 
 

Make Your Own Shade
If you’re planning on being outdoors for a long period of time, bring a beach umbrella to protect yourself from the heat and the sun’s rays. 
 

Beware of a Burn
Never allow your skin to burn!  A burn is your skin’s way of saying that its been in the sun too much.  A burn is unattractive, can be painful and damages your skin in an irreversible way.