UV Safety Month: Tips to Stay Safe in the Sun

It’s summertime! And while this means long, warm, and sunny days, it can also mean more sun exposure for our skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the most common cancer in the United States and worldwide is skin cancer. However, this does not mean we should forgo our favorite summer activities altogether. By following some simple tips, we can protect ourselves and stay safe in the sun.

"Experts recommend using a Broad-Spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 when spending time in the sun."

“Experts recommend using a Broad-Spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 when spending time in the sun.”
Rural Health Team- June 22, 2020

Seek Out Shade

Be aware of the hours that the sun’s rays are at their strongest: 10 am to 4 pm. During this time especially, we want to seek shade and use other forms of sun protection. Wearing pants, long-sleeved shirts, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats are all great ways to protect our skin during the sunniest hours of the day. It’s also important to avoid intentional tanning. Tanning and burning are the body’s reaction to ultraviolet damage, indicating that your skin has been harmed. This process can potentially increase the risk of skin cancer and accelerate skin aging.

Be Cautious Around Sand and Water

We may think that if we are in the shade, we are fully protected from the sun’s damaging rays, but don’t be fooled. The sun’s rays can be reflected off water and sand, potentially causing skin damage. Also, this isn’t just something to keep in mind during the summer months. During the wintertime, damaging rays can reflect off snow. It’s crucial to practice sun safety year-round and exercise additional caution where sunlight could reflect.

Safer Sources of Vitamin D

One of the most well-known benefits of sunlight for our bodies is vitamin D. However, the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention advises obtaining vitamin D from food and supplement sources rather than by sun exposure. Good food sources of vitamin D include fortified milk, juices, and cereals, as well as some fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines. If you are interested in a vitamin D supplement, remember to have a discussion with your healthcare provider first.

Never Forget Sunscreen

And last but certainly not least, wear sunscreen, and wear it generously! Experts recommend using a Broad-Spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 when spending time in the sun. Borad-Spectrum sunscreens provide protection from the sun’s rays, which can lead to early aging, sunburn, and skin cancer. Also, remember to always follow the instructions on the label, applying sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside and reapplying every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or drying off.

The simple tips above, along with yearly dermatologist checkups, can help protect us from the sun’s damaging rays and keep our skin healthy for many sweet summers to come.

Related Resources:

HGIC 4081, Vitamin D

Sources:

  1. “Protect Yourself, Family and Pets from Excessive Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation.” National Weather Service. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. N.d. Web. 24 June 2024.
  2. “Skin Cancer Facts & Statistics- What You Need to Know.” The Skin Cancer Foundation. ©2024 The Skin Cancer Foundation. N.d. Web. 24 June 2024.

If this document didn’t answer your questions, please contact HGIC at hgic@clemson.edu or 1-888-656-9988.

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