It’s that time of the year! Ball games, cookouts, picnics, bike riding, swimming, and all kinds of fun in the sun. However, if you find yourself and your family not properly protected and prepared, the fun soon wanes. Keep reading to learn about protecting your skin.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has a summer campaign - #PracticeSafeSun - to remind you of the importance of protecting your skin and the steps to take.
The facts:
- About 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer.
- The sun’s rays can cause skin cancer.
- Skin cancer is preventable!
The prevention steps:
- Shade is your friend! The sun’s rays are strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. If your shadow appears shorter than you, seek shade.
- Sun-protective clothing is key. It’s wise to wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, a hat, and sunglasses with UV protection. Interesting fact for the pool or beach: dry clothing offers more protection than wet clothing. Additionally, some clothing comes with an ultraviolet protection factor number on the label.
- For the rest of your skin that isn’t covered the entire time, be sure to use plenty of sunscreen and reapply every two hours and after swimming. Don’t forget your feet! Look for an SPF of 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection, and a water-resistant formula.
Of note: Avoid exposing babies younger than 6 months to the sun’s rays.
Enjoy summer, but don’t risk getting burned. Use the above tips for protecting your skin and preventing skin cancer. Plus, your skin will stay wrinkle-free longer.
Source: American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Practice safe sun. Retrieved at: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/practice-safe-sun
Author: Karina Moore, Extension Educator, Health and Family