Tips to Protect Your Skin from the Summer Sun

Summertime means family vacations at the beach, outdoor volleyball and lounging by the pool. These and other summertime activities mean you and your family members will be out in the sun.

• Begin your summer by spending small periods of time in the sun to avoid getting sunburned. In other words, don’t spend three hours out in the sun on your first day of summer vacation. Start with short time periods (30 minutes or so) and increase that time daily.

• Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15 to avoid sunburn. Getting sunburned increases your risk of skin cancer, especially in children.

• Use a stronger sunscreen for sensitive areas: nose, lips, and cheeks.

• Use a “broad spectrum” sunscreen that contains two or more UV ray blocking ingredients to block out both alpha and beta radiation from the sun.

• Always reapply sunscreen after swimming or showering.

• Try to avoid getting in the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from the sun.

Check with your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual discolored splotches or lesions on your skins. Also see your doctor if you notice any changes in the shape or color of freckles or moles.