Sun Safety

Quick Facts:
** Tanning beds/lamps give out UVA and often UVB rays so they are not safe

** Darker clothes are safer, darker sun glasses may not be

** Just 2 bad sunburns with blistering before the age of 18 significantly increases the chances of skin cancers

** Sun burns should never be treated with ice, only cold compress

** Some medications like antibiotics increase sensitivity to the skin

** UVA/B rays penetrate water so skin below the water is not protected

** Limit sun exposure between the hours of 10am & 4pm when it is strongest

** Bronzers and extenders, are considered cosmetics for external use and are not thought to be harmful when used properly

Time in direct sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D so it shouldn’t be completely avoided but the American Cancer Society wants people to understand that sun exposure adds up, its not just trying to avoid burning at the beach or the pool, you need to be aware of limiting sun exposure everyday. Covering up, wearing hats, sunglasses and protective lip products all should accompany sun screen, even though we probably focus the most on wearing sunscreen.

Clothing: Dark colors provide more protection than light colors; long sleeves and long pants are more protective than short.

Make-up: Foundation, lipstick and other cosmetics provide no protection unless the label indicates that they contain sunscreen. If not, sunscreen should be applied, before applying makeup.

Hats: Tightly woven hats that cover and shade head and neck completely are best. Be sure to use sunscreen on exposed uncovered areas like the ears and the back of the neck.

Sunglasses: Eye disease can be the result of sun exposure over time so you want to protect your eyes with glasses that protect against UVA & UVB rays. Darker glasses do not necessarily provide more protection, check for any of the following: UV absorption up to 400 nm, 100% UV absorption, meets ANSI UV

Sunscreen: A minimum of SPF 15 is recommended, the higher the SPF number the more protection the product provides. In order for it to work correctly it must be applied properly according to the label. Usually something like, “Generously apply to all exposed skin areas when skin is dry 20 to 30 minutes before sun exposure.” Reapply often, especially after swimming.

This information provided by the ACS and other great information on prevention measures can be searched at: www.cancer.org