Summer and Skin Safety

The summer weather is finally getting here, and while things are heating up, we’re all starting to plan for a fun and hot summer. But, there are several health risks that you need to consider when you make your plans for your outdoor activities.

Not only can overexposure to the suns UV rays cause sunburns and risk of overheating, UV rays are also a major contributor in a person’s risk for skin cancer.

The Center for Disease Control and GRMC have released several recommendations on how to stay safe while enjoying the summer weather.

1. Always wear sunscreen when you’re planning to be outdoors.
   Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, 30 minutes before going outdoors. It’s important to note that you should even wear it when you aren’t planning on being outside for that long.  Many burns occur when your outdoor activities last longer than expected and you’re caught unprepared. Always make sure to reapply as needed as well.
2. Seek shade often or stay covered up.
   Especially stay out of the sun during the midday hours when the sun is highest and UVA rays are strongest. Trees, umbrellas, and beach cover ups can be helpful in addition to light long-sleeve t-shirts and pants. The average cotton t-shirt has an SPF well below the recommended 15, so even when wearing clothes that cover your body, it doesn’t hurt to wear sunscreen as well.
3. Treat sun burn first aid seriously.
   If you do get sunburnt, drink water to replace lost fluids, take aspirin or ibuprofen for fever and headaches, comfort burns gently with a cool wet cloth, and stay out of the sun until burns clear. If you start to blister, lightly bandage the area with gauze to prevent infection, but don’t break the blisters. If the blisters do break, apply an antiseptic ointment to the open area. Make sure to seek medical attention if you have an exceptionally high fever.

If you follow these rules for prevention, there is no reason that your summer can’t be filled with hours of fun in the sun. The summer months are for going outside and enjoying the warm weather with friends and family. Taking these easy precautions to protect against sunburn and skin cancer will make sure that it stays fun.

For more information go to www.cdc.gov/chooseyourcover