Sun Safety Month

July is Ultraviolet (UV) Safety Month as well as Healthy Vision Month. Did you know that the most common cause of skin cancer is overexposure to UV rays from the sun, tanning beds, or sunlamps? Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, according to the CDC. It is important to protect your skin and your eyes from the sun.

Here are five sun safety tips from the CDC:

1. Use sunscreen – Put on broad-spectrum sunscreen that filters out both UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of 15 or higher before you go outside.
2. Plan activities for morning, late afternoon, or evening – UV rays tend to be strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Try to avoid scheduling outdoor activities when the sun is strongest.
3. Seek shade – You can reduce your risk of sun damage and skin cancer by staying in the shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter. 
4. Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat – Sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts. They also protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure. For the most protection, wear a hat that has a brim all the way around that shades your face, your ears, and the back of your neck. 
5. Wear clothing that covers – When possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants and skirts, which can provide protection from UV rays. If wearing this type of clothing isn’t practical, try to wear a T-shirt or a beach cover-up.

Watch the video below to learn more about Sunscreen Basics from the FDA.

Learn More:

Skin Cancer Basics | Skin Cancer | CDC

Sun Safety Facts | Skin Cancer | CDC