Summer is just around the corner, and the temperature is a constant reminder to protect yourself from excessive exposure to the sun’s UV rays. For some, being overexposed to UV rays can lead to lasting damage such as skin cancer and cataracts. To protect against sun-related damage, follow these tips:
Wear your shades.
Sunglasses that provide 99-100% of UVA and UVB
protection greatly reduce sun exposure that can lead to
cataracts and other eye damage. Be sure to check the label
when buying sunglasses to make sure they have proper
UV protection.
Don’t forget the sunscreen.
Use a sunscreen with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at
least 15. Apply it liberally to all exposed areas of your
body, particularly your ears, face, back and neck. Reapply
every 2 hours when working, playing, or exercising
outdoors; even waterproof sunscreen can come off when
you towel off sweat or water.
Listen to the weather reports.
The UV Index, developed by the National Weather Service
and the Environmental Protection Agency, provides a
forecast of the expected risk of overexposure to the sun
and indicates the degree of caution that you should take
when working, playing or exercising outdoors. Weather
predictions in print and broadcast media announce the
UV Index daily.
Stay out of the midday sun.
The sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4
p.m. If you’re spending the day at the beach, take refuge
under a beach umbrella during those hours when the sun’s
rays are most intense.
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