Spending time outside is a great way to be physically active, reduce stress, and get vitamin D. You can enjoy being outdoors without raising your risk of getting skin cancer by protecting your skin from the sun.
Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV rays are an invisible kind of radiation that comes from the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps. These rays can damage skin cells. It is important to protect your skin from UV rays all year, not just during the summer.
To protect your skin from UV rays, try staying in the shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter. In the continental United States, UV rays are usually strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Daylight Savings Time and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Standard Time.
When possible:
n Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants and skirts to help block UV rays.
n Look for clothing certified under international standards as offering UV protection.
n Wear a hat that has a brim all the way around that shades your face, ears, and back of the neck. A darker hat may offer more UV protection.
n Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts. Sunglasses also protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure.
n Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best protection. Wraparound styles work best because they also block UV rays from sneaking in from the side.
n Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that filters out both UVA and UVB rays and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher before you go outside.
n Apply a thick layer of sunscreen on all exposed skin.
n Always check the expiration date on sunscreen. It has a shelf life of no more than 3 years.
For more information, go to cdc.gov/skin-cancer/sun-safety.
— Benefits and Wellness,
Human Resources, 7-25-24
