According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. The risk of skin cancer and other health problems, including cataracts and premature wrinkles, increases with just a few serious sunburns. Protect yourself and your family this summer with these sun-safe tips.
1. Apply and reapply
Sunscreen protects your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays by absorbing, reflecting or scattering sunlight. The sun protection factor (SPF) rates a sunscreen’s effectiveness in providing defense against UV rays. The Mayo Clinic recommends applying a broad spectrum sunscreen (broad spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays) with at least SPF 15 before heading outdoors, even on cool or slightly cloudy days. If you remain outside for an extended period of time, remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you are swimming or sweating. Finally, keep an eye on your product’s expiration date – while most sunscreens have a shelf life of no more than three years, exposure to high temperatures can shorten the product’s shelf life.
2. Cover up
If possible, wear long pants or skirts, long-sleeve shirts and hats with wide brims. The SPF rating of a typical t-shirt is less than 15, and this value decreases when clothing is wet. Shield your eyes with sunglasses, particularly those that wrap around and block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. Tip: Check out the American Optometric Association’s sunglasses shopping guide for help finding protective sunglasses.
3. Find shade
Limit exposure to the sun as much as possible. Seek shade under an umbrella, tree or other shelter, particularly during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when UV radiation is at its strongest, according to the World Health Organization. Even when you are in the shade, continue to protect your skin by using sunscreen or wearing protective clothing.
4. Pay attention
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the sun’s UV rays can damage unprotected skin in as little as 15 minutes, but you may not notice the full effect of the damage for several hours. Pay close attention to your skin for signs of turning slightly pink, and head inside if it does. Examine your skin regularly for new markings – such as moles, bumps, color changes and scaly spots – and keep an eye on moles for changes in color, size, shape or texture. Tip: Some health care providers include skin exams as part of annual wellness exams. Remember, preventive care is 100 percent covered by the GW Health Savings Plan (HSP) and the GW PPO.
5. Stay hydrated
Up to 60 percent of the human body is water, and proper hydration is critical to our health. Water helps the body regulate temperature, lubricate and cushion joints, carry waste and protect your spinal cord and other sensitive tissues. Heat and increased activity levels require a greater water intake, so make sure to drink plenty of water when you spend time outdoors. You can also stay hydrated by consuming foods with higher water content, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelon and strawberries.
