Summer Sun Safety

       With summer at its peak, there is no better time than now to become educated about the dangers of sun exposure and how to protect you and your family. While summer provides many opportunities for fun outdoor activities and events, it is also the time during which you are the most susceptible to sun damage, including skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than one million cases of skin cancer diagnosed annually. Also, it is estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Luckily, most forms of skin cancer can be prevented, and sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers.

      Excessive sun exposure causes more harm than just cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 90% of visible skin changes attributed to aging are caused by sun exposure. However, these negative effects can be prevented. Use the following tips to protect you and your family from sun damage.   With summer at its peak, there is no better time than now to become educated about the dangers of sun exposure and how to protect you and your family. While summer provides many opportunities for fun outdoor activities and events, it is also the time during which you are the most susceptible to sun damage, including skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than one million cases of skin cancer diagnosed annually. Also, it is estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.

     Luckily, most forms of skin cancer can be prevented, and sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers. Excessive sun exposure causes more harm than just cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 90% of visible skin changes attributed to aging are caused by sun exposure. However, these negative effects can be prevented. Use the following tips to protect you and your family from sun damage.

-Stay out of mid-day sun (10 am- 4 pm), the time during which the sun is  strongest.

- Use the shadow rule: A shadow that is shorter than you are means the UV exposure is high.

- Wear loose fitting, light clothing that covers your arms and legs

-Generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF of  at least 15 to all exposed skin.  (“Broad-spectrum” provides protection from both  ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.)

-Re-apply approximately every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating

-Use extra caution near water and sand as they reflect the damaging rays of the  sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn

-Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause  skin cancer and wrinkling.