You and UV Safety
The temperature in Ohio is heating up! As we spend time outdoors all summer, we must remember to stay sun-safe. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin in as little as 15 minutes and can cause sunburn, skin aging, eye damage and skin cancer, the most common of all cancers. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were more than 80,422 people diagnosed with melanoma of the skin in 2015 alone. As you enjoy the beautiful weather and outdoor social-distance gatherings, reduce your risk of skin damage and skin cancer by following these safety tips:
Sunscreen
Apply sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher before you go outside, even on slightly cloudy or cool days. Do not forget to put a thick layer on all parts of exposed skin. Sunscreen will wear off after swimming, sweating or using a towel, so be sure to reapply every two hours.
Make sure to check the expiration date of your sunscreen. Sunscreen without an expiration date has a shelf life of no more than three years, but it is shorter if it has been exposed to high temperatures.
Did you know you should put sunscreen on before a long car ride? UV light can penetrate through some types of glass and your skin will be exposed to it.
Shade
The sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 am-4 pm. Limit exposure during these hours by sitting under umbrellas, trees or other sheltered areas.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts and other eye problems by wearing your favorite pair of shades! Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best protection. Sunglasses also protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure.
Clothing
When possible, cover up with long-sleeved shirts and other clothes that can provide protection from UV rays. A wet t-shirt does not offer as much UV protection as a dry one, and darker colors are better than lighter ones. If wearing this type of clothing isn’t practical, try to wear a t-shirt or beach cover-up.
Hat
A hat can make a great fashion statement while protecting your face and eyes. It also will protect your scalp from being burned. For the most protection possible, wear a hat with a brim all the way around that shades your face, ears and back of your neck.
People of all skin types and colors are potentially at risk for sunburn and other harmful effects of UV radiation. We encourage everyone to stay informed and stay safe! For more information about UV Safety, read from the CDC or contact our healthcare professionals at axesspointe.org.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm
FDA
CancerCare
https://www.cancercare.org/publications/83-staying_safe_in_the_sun
