The sun's rays shine every day, 365 days of the year when it is sunny outside as well as on cloudy days. Your best bet is to wear sun protection daily all year round. Here are some tips for keeping the harmful effects of rays to a minimum.
- Minimize your sunlight exposure during the hours of 10 am and 4 pm when the sun's rays are strongest
- Perform activities before 10 am or after 4 pm; this includes sports and hobbies
- Apply sun protection (sunblock/sunscreen) at least 30 minutes prior to being in the sun
- Use a sunblock that has broad spectrum coverage meaning it protects UVA as well as UVB rays
- Use a sunblock that has sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher and is water resistant
- Reapply sunblock every 2 hours, after heavy perspiration (e.g. after a workout) and after getting out of the water (e.g. swimming)
- Wear sunglasses that provide both UVA and UVB protection
- Apply at least 1 ounce of sunblock which is enough to fill a shot glass (or 2 tablespoons) to the exposed parts of your body not protected by clothing. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends adjusting the amount according to your body size.
- Use additional forms of sun protection such as sun protective clothing and broad brimmed hats
- Lips need protection from sunlight too! Wear lip protection with SPF of 30 and reapply every 2 hours
- Be mindful that snow, sand and water can reflect rays so make sure to be protected if you’re out skiing, on the beach or on the water!
- Keep infants under the age of 6 months out of the sun. For infants 6 months and older, use sunblock and sun protective clothing.
- Did you know sunscreens expire? Over time, the ingredients can degrade and become ineffective. Throw out sunscreens with expired dates and unused sunscreens older than 1 year or those exposed to extreme temperatures. When in doubt, throw it out!
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