July is UV Safety Awareness Month

Summer is a great time to enjoy longer days and spend more time outdoors. It is also a good time to think about protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays.

UV rays cause sunburns, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. While a sunburn may fade after a few days, repeated exposure to UV rays can have lasting effects on your skin.

The good news is that a few simple habits can make a difference:

• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
• Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses with UV protection, and lightweight long sleeves can help reduce sun exposure.
• The sun’s rays are typically strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., so try to limit sun exposure during these hours.
• UV rays can pass through clouds, so sun protection is important even when it is overcast outside.
• Become familiar with your skin and talk with your healthcare provider if you notice a new or changing mole, spot, or lesion.

Something else to consider is that many common medications can make your skin burn faster than normal. This is called photosensitivity. Some common medications include NSAIDs like ibuprofen, some blood pressure medicines, and an antibiotic called Doxycycline. Make sure to check your medication labels or consult your doctor or pharmacist to see if your medicine(s) interact with the sun.

Protecting your skin is an important part of preventive healthcare. Making sun safety part of your daily routine can help reduce your risk of skin damage and support your long-term health.

Individuals should consult their healthcare provider with questions about skin health, skin cancer screenings, or concerns about changes in their skin.