7 Simple Ways to Protect Your Skin in the Sun.

In the U.S., skin cancer is by far the most commonly diagnosed cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Since most skin cancers develop as a result of exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, taking steps to protect your skin in the sun can help you reduce your risk of skin cancer.

It’s important to use sun protection while enjoying the benefits of getting outside.

Our skin makes vitamin D naturally when it’s exposed to the sun, which can positively impact our body’s mental and physical function. In fact, vitamin D can help to boost your immune system and improve your mood by increasing serotonin levels in the body. Still, there are many dangers to the sun, which is why most doctors recommend getting vitamin D from what you eat or supplements.

While there are many benefits to getting outside, the sun’s UV rays can be harmful if we don’t take precautions to protect our skin in the sun. The sun gives off two different types of UV rays, both of which can be dangerous:

• UVA rays are responsible for sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer.
• UVB rays can contribute to skin aging and skin cancer.

Although both types of UV rays can negatively affect the skin, UVB rays are more likely to cause skin cancer, including melanoma.

Factors affecting UV exposure

It’s important to protect your skin from both types of UV rays because neither one is safe. And, your environment can impact how strong they are. The following factors can impact how much your skin is exposed to UV rays:

• The time of day: 10 am to 4 pm is when UV rays are strongest.
• Distance from equator: The closer you are to the equator, the stronger the UV rays are.
• Elevation: Higher elevation means more exposure.
• Reflection off surfaces: Sand, snow, and water may reflect sunlight, increasing UV ray exposure.
• Length of time: The longer your skin is exposed, the greater your risk.

By taking the right steps to protect your skin in the sun, you can reduce your risk of getting skin cancer—and prevent premature skin aging, like wrinkles, dark spots, and leathery skin.

How to protect your skin in the sun.

Even if it’s not sunny, your skin is still exposed to harmful UV rays any time you’re outside. Here are seven simple ways you can limit your UV exposure and protect yourself in the sun.

1. Choose the right type of sunscreen.

Sunscreen is an effective way to minimize your risk of skin cancer and signs of early skin aging caused by the sun. Except for babies under the age of six months, everyone should wear sunscreen anytime they’re outdoors. When picking a sunscreen, it’s important to choose the right kind. The American Academy of Dermatology also recommends selecting a sunscreen that is:

• A broad-spectrum option, offering protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
• Sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
• “Water-resistant”.

Keep in mind that while sunscreen can be “water-resistant”, it is not waterproof or sweatproof. As a result, it’s important to reapply frequently, especially if you are swimming or sweating.

2. Apply and reapply sunscreen regularly.

The way you apply sunscreen impacts how effectively it protects your skin. The best way to apply sunscreen is to lather it on 15 to 30 minutes before you expose your skin to the sun. That’s about how much time it takes for your skin to absorb it. After you apply, wait 10 to 20 minutes to avoid accidentally rubbing off the sunscreen. You can reduce your risk of sunburn by reapplying every two hours—or sooner if you're swimming.

How much sunscreen do I need to apply?

Following the "teaspoon rule" is a great way to ensure you’ve used enough sunscreen to protect uncovered skin. The “teaspoon rule” suggests applying a teaspoon-sized amount of sunscreen according to these guidelines:

• One teaspoon on your face and neck.
• One teaspoon on each arm.
• Two teaspoons on your front torso.
• Two teaspoons on your back.
• Two teaspoons on each leg.

3. Wear protective clothing.

Covering up in clothing is a great way to minimize your exposure to UV rays, but different types of clothing offer varying levels of protection. The following types of clothing offer the most protection:

• Thicker fabrics (e.g. denim) compared to thin fabrics (e.g. cotton)
• Darker colors
• Dry fabrics

Many clothing brands also make comfortable, lightweight tops and bottoms that can offer protection from the sun’s UV rays. Look for garments that are labeled with a UV protection factor (UPF). A higher number means more protection from UV rays.

4. Cover your head with a wide-brimmed hat.

Hats with brims at least three inches in diameter are an effective way to limit your face’s exposure to UV rays. Baseball caps or other hats with a narrower brim may not protect all of the areas on your face that may be exposed to the sun, like your ears, nose, and neck.

5. Protect your eyes with sunglasses.

Sunglasses are important for protecting your eyes and the skin around your eyes from the sun. It's hard to judge how well a pair of sunglasses can protect you from the sun just by looking at the color of the lenses. Instead, look for sunglasses that say they block 99% or 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

6. Avoid the sun during peak hours.

The sun’s UV rays are strongest between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. Try to stay in the shade if you must be outside during that time of day—or avoid it altogether, if you can.

7. Seek shade wherever you can.

Staying under shade can be a great way to get outside while limiting your UV exposure. Whether you seek shelter under a tree or set up a tent on the beach, it’s important to find shade, especially during the sun’s strongest hours. This is especially true for babies who should avoid any unnecessary sun exposure. Babies younger than six months should always be protected from the sun with strollers, hats, and umbrellas.

What to do if you get a bad sunburn.

Most cases of sunburn are mild to moderate, which can be uncomfortable. Ibuprofen, aloe vera gel, or cold compresses can help to minimize swelling and pain while it heals. If you have any blisters, avoid picking them open. If they do rupture, clean them with soap and water and cover with a wet dressing to avoid any infection.

In more severe cases that result in vomiting, fever, or disorientation, you may need to seek medical attention from an urgent care center.

You don’t have to stay indoors altogether, but being cautious can help you protect your skin and minimize your risk of skin cancer. Limit unnecessary sun exposure by correctly applying sunscreen, covering up with clothes, hats, and sunglasses, and staying in the shade.

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