5 Ways To Stay Safe In The Sun

June 29, 2016 | Blog

By Marissa Davis, Project Director, NJPHK-Trenton

Summer is fast approaching! This means nicer weather and more time spent outside which can be damaging to your skin. Sunburns are a serious hazard for children and adults alike. It’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays whenever you’re outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control has five ways to stay safe and protect your skin from overexposure.

1. Sunscreen – Be sure to find a lotion that it at least SPF 15 with UVA and UVB protection. No sunscreen is waterproof or sweat proof and should be reapplied after swimming or sweating. If you find yourself getting a little pink, immediately reapply.
2. Wear protective clothing – tightly woven clothing is ideal and long pants and long sleeve shirts provide the best protection. Dry, darker colored clothes are a smart choice, too. There are even some articles of clothing that offer UV protection.
3. Find a shady spot – try to stay out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day when rays are most dangerous (between 10 am and 2 pm). If you’re spending the day in a park, find a wooded area and have a picnic under a tree. If you’re on a beach, use an umbrella or even a tent.
4. Wear sunglasses – eyes are sensitive areas that can get easily damaged by too much sun. Be sure to wear lenses that protect your eyes from UVA and UVB rays.
5. Wear hats – hats allow for facial and scalp protection from harmful sun rays. Try to find hats with a wide, all around brim so that your ears and neck are also protected.

Be smart about sun protection, too many sunburns can increase your risk of skin cancer. Sun damage can happen. Always plan ahead, especially on particularly sunny days! For more information about how to stay safe from the sun’s harmful rays, visit the CDC’s website.

SHARE: Return To Previous Page