Whether you’re going for a swim or soaking up some Vitamin D, getting outside is a great way to boost your mood and stay healthy. However, it is also important to know that too much time in the sun can have the opposite effect on your health. From sun poisoning to skin cancer, the short- and long-term effects of overexposure are ones you want to avoid.
BRMS is here with a few helpful tips for keeping safe this summer so that you can enjoy the sunny weather to the fullest!
Keep reading for some important facts to keep in mind and some easy ways to look out for your skin health.
Sun Safety by the Numbers
- The most common cancer in the United States is skin cancer.*
- Around 5 million people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer each year.**
- Skin cancer can affect anyone.*
- Having over five sunburns can double your risk of melanoma.***
- Skin cancer treatment costs the United States around $8.1 billion per year.**
- Around 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70.***
- Over 400,000 cases of skin cancer each year are related to indoor tanning.**
7 Ways to Protect Your Skin
- Regularly apply sunscreen: Be sure to apply a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on any exposed areas of your skin, even if it’s cloudy out.
- Limit your time in the sun: Take care to keep your time in the sun shorter than you would in the winter, especially from 10 AM and 2 PM, which is when the sun’s UV rays are most intense.
- Cover up when you go outdoors: Whenever possible, try to cover as much of your skin as possible when outside. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants are good summer options—and don’t forget sunglasses!
- Spring for a hat: An easy way to protect your face is with a hat, preferably one with a wide brim that protects your ears, head, and neck.
- Avoid tanning beds: The UV rays emitted by tanning beds are harmful to your skin, increasing your risk of skin cancer. Opt for sunless tanning products instead.
- Check your medications: Some medications can cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun, increasing your risk of sunburn. Ask your doctor about your medications if you aren’t sure.
- Watch the UV index: The UV index informs you of how strong the sun’s UV radiation is that day. If the UV index is high, plan to take extra precautions.
As you enjoy the great outdoors, don’t forget to grab your sunblock, a hat, and a water bottle! Take the time to look out for your skin today and you’ll be glad you did tomorrow. Whether it’s avoiding a painful sunburn or saving yourself from needing future treatment, let’s work to have a happy, healthy season in the sun!
Looking for more health tips and insights?
Check out our previous blogs!
Additional Sources
* https://www.aad.org/media/stats-skin-cancer
** https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/skin-cancer/fact-sheet/index.html
*** https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts/