Spending time outside is a fantastic way to stay active, reduce stress, and soak up vitamin D. However, it’s crucial to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe in the sun all year round.
Most skin cancers are caused by excessive exposure to UV light, an invisible form of radiation that comes from the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps. UV rays can damage skin cells, leading to skin cancer. Protection from UV rays is essential throughout the year, not just during the summer. UV rays can penetrate clouds and reflect off surfaces like water, cement, sand, and snow. In the continental United States, UV rays are typically strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during daylight saving time (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. standard time).
Sun Safety Tips
Shade
Reduce your risk of sun damage by staying in the shade, especially during peak UV hours. Use umbrellas, trees, or other shelters, and remember to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing even when in the shade.
Clothing
Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and skirts whenever possible. Tightly woven fabrics provide the best protection. If these options aren’t practical, opt for a T-shirt or beach cover-up. Darker colors and dry fabrics offer better UV protection than lighter or wet ones. Some clothing is certified for UV protection under international standards.
Hat
A wide-brimmed hat offers the most protection, shading your face, ears, and neck. Tightly woven fabrics like canvas are ideal. Avoid straw hats with holes that let sunlight through. Darker hats may provide more protection. If you wear a baseball cap, protect your ears and neck with additional clothing, sunscreen, or by staying in the shade.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts while shielding the delicate skin around your eyes. Choose sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. Wrap-around styles are best as they prevent UV rays from entering from the sides.
Sunscreen
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to protect against UVA and UVB rays. Apply a thick layer on all exposed skin and get help for hard-to-reach areas like your back. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Sunscreen is not recommended for babies younger than six months; instead, keep infants out of direct sunlight and use protective clothing.
SPF and Reapplication
Sunscreen’s effectiveness is indicated by its sun protection factor (SPF). Higher numbers provide more protection. Always check the expiration date of your sunscreen; if there isn’t one, assume a shelf life of no more than three years, shorter if exposed to high temperatures.
Sun Safety for Schools and Employers
Schools
Schools can protect students by increasing shade with structures or trees, moving activities to shaded areas, and incorporating sun-safe behaviors into daily routines. Educational programs and breaks for sunscreen reapplication are essential.
Employers
Employers should minimize sun exposure risks for outdoor workers by providing shade, scheduling breaks, and adjusting work schedules to avoid peak UV hours. Sun safety information should be part of workplace wellness programs, and training on UV risks and symptoms of overexposure is crucial.
Protecting your skin from the sun is vital for reducing the risk of skin cancer. By following these tips and staying informed about UV safety, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. If you witness child abuse, report it to local law enforcement or the Arizona Department of Child Safety at 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445) or ChildHelp at 1-800-422-4453.
