SUN FACTS
- UVA rays: Pass through windows, cause premature aging signs, and can increase skin cancer risk. (these are the rays tanning salons claim are safe)
- UVB rays: Penetrate skin causing damage, cause sunburn, and can increase skin cancer risk.
- Sunlight is strongest between 10am and 4pm
- On cloudy days, 80% of UV rays can pass through the clouds
- SPF: Sun Protection Factor. Measures how long you can stay in the sun without getting burned. (If you burn in 15 minutes, SPF 15 = 15 times longer in sun before burning)
– SPF 15 screens 93% of UVB rays
– SPF 30 screens 97% of UVB rays
- An inadequate amount of sunscreen applied will result in a lower SPF!
SUNSCREEN TIPS
When choosing and using sunscreen:
- Use SPF 30 or higher
- Choose UVA/UVB protection (broad-spectrum sunscreen)
- Apply one half hour before going into the sun
- One full ounce must be used to adequately cover exposed areas of the body (enough to fill a shot glass)
- Reapply every 2 hours
- Reapply after swimming, towel drying, or perspiring, even when using waterproof sunscreen.
- Be sure to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas daily. Pay attention to face, ears, hands and arms.
- Lotion and cosmetics with sunscreen should be used in conjunction with sunscreen .
- Toss sunscreen after it expires. If there is no expiration date, the FDA requires that it maintain its strength for at least three years.
Other Sun Tips
- Wear protective clothing
- Seek shade
- Avoid tanning beds
- Extra caution near water, snow, and sand
- Avoid direct sunlight between 10am and 4pm
- Wear sunglasses with UV protection
- Use lip balm with SPF of 15 or greater
Don't forget!
- For sensitive skin use sunscreen with titanium oxide or zinc oxide.
- Use sunscreen even on cloudy days.
- Vitamin D can be obtained through a healthy diet and supplements. Don't seek sun.
- Use self-tanners as a safe alternative to tanning.
Finally...
On your birthday check your body. If you have a history of skin cancer check your body once a month … look for anything changing, growing or bleeding.
For more information refer to the American Academy of Dermatology website: www.aad.org
