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Summer Sun Safety

Summer is here, and it’s time to head to the beach, gear up for sports, and enjoy the outdoors! 

by Asma Khan, MD
Content Partner: Sun River Health

At this time of year, it’s more important than ever to remember to keep these sun safety tips in mind.

Care for Your Skin

Overexposure to the sun can result in health complications, including skin cancer. Remember these sun safety tips as you and your family spend time outside this summer:

  • Take extra precaution between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its strongest.
  • Apply sunscreen liberally and evenly over all exposed areas of your body. Look for sunscreens that provide an SPF of at least 15. For children, look for an SPF of 30 or higher. Always reapply after swimming or heavy perspiration.
  • Wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Keep children under six months out of the sun completely.
  • Remember that UV rays bounce off concrete, sand, and water.
  • Do not use sun tanning beds.
  • Always try to stay in the shade.

What About Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is necessary for a healthy diet. It helps maintain strong bones and teeth and helps to prevent certain cancers, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

A common misconception is that the best source of Vitamin D is unprotected exposure to UV rays. There are much safer, more effective ways of getting your daily requirement without putting yourself at risk for skin cancer. Introduce foods rich in Vitamin D to your diet, including most fish and eggs, and foods fortified with Vitamin D like milk, cereal, bread, and yogurt.

Summer Sun Safety: What You Need to Know

Sun safety is important at all ages and in all kinds of weather. UV rays can be just as strong on cloudy or hazy days as sunny ones. Always take extra precautions with your children, as they receive three times the sun exposure as adults on average.

In some parts of the world, melanoma (skin cancer) is increasing at a faster rate than any other kind of cancer. In the United States, more than 1.2 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year. One blistering sunburn can double a child’s lifetime risk of developing skin cancer.

It’s time to enjoy the great outdoors—but remember to put your skin safety first this summer!

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