Summer is officially here, so now is a good time to think about your sun safety routine. Whatever your summer plans are, protecting yourself from the sun should be part of them.
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds can not only lead to painful and ugly sunburns that can ruin summer fun, but also skin cancer and skin aging. Skin damage from every sunburn you get increases your risk of skin cancer. Although this may sound frightening, it’s never too late to pick up some good habits.
Here are some things to keep in mind when thinking about sun safety.
Know your sunburn risk.
Although people of all skin colors need to use sun protection, those with lighter skin are more likely to burn. Common medications can also make your skin sun-sensitive, including antihistamines, antibiotics, NSAIDs, as well as oral contraceptives and estrogens. There are several others, so check with your doctor or pharmacist about your current medications. Additionally, UV rays can penetrate clouds and reflect off surfaces like sand, water and pavement. And don’t let the weather fool you — you can get burned on a cool or cloudy day! Look for the UV index on your weather app or television broadcast and protect yourself accordingly.
Protect yourself with clothing.
Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) labeled clothing, darker colors and tightly woven fabrics are great ways to protect your skin from the sun. And don’t forget your eyes! Sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection will help keep your eyes protected. Wide-brimmed hats are a great way to protect sensitive areas on your head and neck.
Spend some time in the shade.
Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is at its peak. Consider bringing an umbrella or portable tent with you to events to create your own shady spot. A helpful rule: if your shadow is short, seek shade.
Choose the right sunscreen.
Broad spectrum, SPF 30 or higher sunscreens are the best options. Find one that is water-resistant so time in the water won’t take it off right away. Reapply sunscreen every two hours whether you’ve been in the water or not.
Also look for sunscreens made from minerals like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or chemical sunscreens with avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate or octisalate. While both types are FDA approved, mineral sunscreens do not absorb into the skin and are safer for sea life.
Protect your kids.
When you help your kids start the habit of sun protection early, they’ll learn to incorporate it into their daily routine — just like brushing their teeth. Infants under six months should stay in the shade rather than wearing sunscreen because of their thinner sensitive skin. All children are vulnerable to the risks of excessive sun exposure and need sun protection of some kind whenever they are outside.
If there are restrictions on using sunscreen or sun protective clothing at your educational, childcare or recreational setting, ask your child’s doctor to give you a note to allow use.
Avoid indoor tanning all year round.
Tanned skin is not healthy skin. A tanning bed tan is not a safer way to tan. Indoor tanning beds/lamp use drastically increases risk of developing melanoma, a potentially fatal skin cancer.
Examine your skin.
Skin exams are important for people at higher risk of skin cancer. A skin self-exam can be performed once a month to help find skin cancer and other problems early. For information on how to perform a skin self-exam, click here. Healthcare providers such as a dermatologists can do full-body exams or look at spots that concern you.
This is part of a monthly series from Keyser, your employee benefits partner.