Sun Safety

Sun exposure can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes.

Due to the strong correlation between sun exposure and skin cancer, consider the recommendations below.

  • Avoid the sun in the middle of the day. UVB rays are most intense between the hours of 10am-3pm. UVA rays are present from sun up to sun down (these are the rays that promote premature aging).
  • Cover up. Long sleeved shirts and long pants provide the best protections from UV rays. Dry, dark and tightly woven fabrics offer the best protection. Hats and sunglasses are recommended to offer even more protections from UV rays.
  • Wear Sunscreen. Wearing broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 before you go outside, even on slightly cloudy or cool days is recommended. Put a thick layer on areas that are exposed to the sun. Reapply sunscreen if you are out in the sun for more than 2 hours and after swimming, sweating or toweling off.
  • Visit a dermatologist. Visiting a dermatologist annually can help detect changes in your skin and possible skin cancer early. Be on the lookout for any new raised growths, itchy patches, non-healing sores, or changes in moles or new colored areas that might signify a form of cancer.

Additional Resources