For many people, Memorial Day weekend signifies the start of summer. The sun has several positive effects on our overall health, but like many things, sunshine should be enjoyed in moderation. As we spend more time enjoying the warmer weather and longer days outdoors, the risk for ultraviolet (UV) damage to the skin increases. Much of the damage to our skin caused by sun exposure can be prevented. Here are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself from harmful UV radiation:
- Spend time in the shade
- Cover your body with protective clothing
- Cover exposed skin in sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming
- Wear UV filtering sunglasses
Summer is right around the corner. Go outside. Enjoy the sun! Just remember to Slip! Slop! Slap!...and Wrap when you’re outdoors — slip on a shirt, slop on broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, slap on a wide-brimmed hat, and wrap on sunglasses.