Safe sun exposure tips
Summer in Northeast Georgia brings longer days, warmer temperatures and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. From afternoons by the pool and family vacations to backyard cookouts, gardening and outdoor work, many of us spend significantly more time in the sun during the summer months.
While sunlight has its benefits – such as boosting mood and helping the body produce vitamin D – too much exposure can be harmful to your skin and overall health.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable. By taking a few proactive steps and making sun safety part of your daily routine, you can protect yourself and your loved ones while still enjoying everything summer has to offer. As you head outside this season, keep these sun safety tips in mind for a fun, healthy summer.
Protecting your skin starts with smart choices
1. Limit sun exposure during peak hours
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. During these peak hours, unprotected skin can burn more quickly, increasing the risk of long-term damage. Whenever possible, seek shade under trees, umbrellas or covered areas, especially during midday. If you’re planning outdoor activities such as exercise, yard work or playtime with children, try scheduling them earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun is less intense. Taking breaks from direct sunlight throughout the day can also help reduce cumulative UV exposure.
2. Use sunscreen properly – and consistently
Sunscreen is one of the most effective defenses against sun damage, but only when it’s used correctly. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin about 15 minutes before going outside, even on cloudy days – up to 80% of UV rays can still penetrate cloud cover.
Be sure not to overlook commonly missed areas such as the ears, neck, tops of the feet, lips and scalp. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming, sweating or towel drying. For children, use sunscreen specifically designed for sensitive skin, and make reapplication a regular part of outdoor playtime.
3. Wear protective clothing and accessories
Clothing can provide an additional layer of sun protection. When spending extended time outdoors, opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when practical. Tightly woven fabrics offer more protection than loosely woven materials, and some clothing is designed with built-in ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) ratings.
Wide-brimmed hats help shield your face, ears and neck – areas that are particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them while also reducing the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions. These simple additions can make a meaningful difference in reducing your overall UV exposure.
4. Avoid tanning beds and intentional tanning
Tanning beds may seem like a safe and easy alternative to outdoor sun exposure, but they emit harmful UV radiation that can be just as damaging – if not more so – than the sun. The use of tanning beds significantly increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of the disease. There is no such thing as a “safe tan.” If you prefer a sun-kissed look, consider sunless self-tanning products, which provide color without UV exposure.
5. Perform regular skin checks
Getting to know your own skin is an important part of early detection. Take time each month to check your skin from head to toe, looking for any new, changing or unusual spots, moles or growths. Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes, so it’s important to report anything concerning to a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
A simple way to remember what to look for is the ABCDE rule:
- A – Asymmetry: One half of the spot does not match the other half.
- B – Border: The edges are irregular, ragged or blurred.
- C – Color: The spot has more than one color or uneven shading, such as shades of brown, black, red, white or blue.
- D – Diameter: The spot is larger than a pencil eraser (about 6 millimeters).
- E – Evolving: The spot changes in size, shape, color or texture over time, or begins to itch or bleed.
If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule an evaluation with a medical professional promptly.
Prevention today for a healthier tomorrow
Understanding the causes of skin cancer empowers individuals and families to take control of their health. By minimizing UV exposure, avoiding tanning beds, using sunscreen properly, wearing protective clothing and monitoring your skin regularly, you can significantly reduce your risk.