Stay Safe in the Sun

May 12, 2022

Are some people more likely to burn?

YES! The most susceptible are people who are blue-eyed, fair-skinned, tan poorly or have red or blonde hair.

Should I use sunscreen?

Yes. There is evidence that sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer and sunburn and slows the aging effects of the sun. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with the highest number, preferably 30 or greater, if you are more likely to burn.

Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours while you’re in the sun and more often if you are perspiring or swimming. The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Use a sunscreen with a higher protection factor on the areas that are more exposed: the tip of the nose, ears, collarbone, top of the feet and shoulders. On your lips, use only those products designed for that area. Keep all sunscreen and sun medications away from the eyes.

What are other ways I can protect my skin from the sun?

Along with wearing sunscreen, seeking shade helps protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Furthermore, covering up as much as possible with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor, helps provide sun protection. Wearing sunglasses with ultraviolet protection and a hat, preferably with a wide brim, are also important protection measures.

Can medications add to sun sensitivity?

Yes. Some examples are Tetracycline and diuretics. These have the potential to cause a bad burn from an amount of sun that would not ordinarily be harmful.

What should I do about a bad burn?

Take a cool bath or shower and then apply a moisturizer, particularly one containing aloe vera. Drink extra water and take special care to protect your skin while it is healing.

Recommended Precautions Your Children and the Sun:

Children younger than 6 months old should be kept out of the sun. Dress your baby in sun-protective clothing and cover their head with a hat.

Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher, which also has broad-spectrum protection and is water resistant; however, minimize sunscreen use on children younger than 6 months old. Reapply sunscreen on your child every two hours or right after swimming or sweating.

Be safe and have fun!

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