UV safety awareness month.

Protect your skin every day.

Summer is perfect for spending time outside, whether you’re at the beach or relaxing in your backyard. The flip side is that more time outdoors can also mean more exposure to harmful UV rays.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting about 1 in 5 Americans. Most skin cancers can be treated when found early, and daily sun protection can help lower your risk. The good news? Protecting your skin doesn’t have to be complicated.

6 simple ways to protect your skin

1. Pick a broad-spectrum sunscreen. This protects you from both UVA and UVB rays, helping lower your risk of sunburn, skin cancer and early skin aging. Just check the expiration date, because expired sunscreen might not work as well.
2. Use SPF 30 or higher. Make sure to cover all exposed skin, including easy-to-miss spots like your ears, lips, scalp, neck and the backs of your hands. Put it on about 30 minutes before you head outside.
3. Look beyond labels like “sport,” “baby” or “sensitive skin.” The FDA does not officially define these terms, although they may indicate a formula made for sweating or sensitive skin. Be sure to also look for broad-spectrum protection and SPF 30 or higher. If you have sensitive skin, consider a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which may be less likely to cause irritation.
4. Reapply sunscreen during the day. Water-resistant doesn’t mean waterproof, so check the label to see how long it protects you while swimming or sweating. Reapply at least every two hours outdoors and after swimming, sweating or toweling off.
5. Take extra steps to protect yourself. Sunscreen doesn’t block all UV rays. Try to stay in the shade, especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses that block UV rays. Remember, UV rays can reach your skin even on cloudy days.
6. Avoid indoor tanning. Tanning beds and sunlamps expose your skin to harmful UVA radiation and increase your risk of skin cancer.

Healthy habits add up.

Simple habits can make a big difference. If you have questions about sun safety or notice a new or changing spot on your skin, your Martin’s Point provider is here to help.

Learn more about protecting your skin from the sun.