Sun Safety
Summer is here and once again outdoor activities are a favorite of both children and adults alike. It is important that everyone takes good care of their skin by protecting it from ultraviolet (UV) rays. Learn how to protect your skin from the sun and some important first aid tips for sunburn.
The following are guidelines regarding skin protection:
- Limit time in the midday sun. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10:00am and 4:00pm.
- Seek shade when outside. This will help protect skin from direct sun.
- Wear broad spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15-30 or higher. The higher the number the greater the protection. Apply 30 minutes prior to sun exposure to allow for penetration. Use generously and reapply after swimming and every two hours when outside. Use lip balm with sunscreen in it.
- Wear a wide brim hat. It offers good protection for eyes, ears, face and the back of the neck which are prone to overexposure.
- Wear sunglasses that block 99-100% UV rays (UVA and UVB). This will greatly reduce eye damage due to exposure to the sun. Be sure to check the labels when purchasing sunglasses.
- Tightly woven, loose fitting, and full length clothing is a good way to protect skin from the sun.
- Watch your local UV index to plan outdoor activities and prevent overexposure. You can find out what your local UV index is by visiting the EPA’s website. (EPA's Where you live)
- Avoid sunlamps and tanning parlors. These artificial UV lights will also damage skin and eyes.
Although people try not to get sunburned it still happens to all of us sometimes. Taking care of your skin after you get sunburned is also very important. Please visit the MedlinePlus website for specific information regarding first aid for sunburn. It gives one of the most detailed directions on how to care for sunburned skin.
References: Environmental Protection Agency, EPA.gov June 2006; The National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, NLM.NIH.gov, June 2006; and Mollies Fund Brochure through MolliesFund.org.
Information gathered: 6-2-06.