July is UV Safety Month! Do you have your sunscreen?

July is UV Safety Month. During this month awareness is raised on the risks of sun damage. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are the main cause of skin cancer.

Fourth of July weekend and festivities usually mean tons of fun in the sun. Whether it’s at the beach or during a family BBQ, your skin is exposed to the sun’s harmful rays.

Remember to use sunscreen for your fun day in the sun!

Who should wear sunscreen?

People of all skin colors can get skin cancer from the sun’s UV rays. Those who are most likely to get skin cancer from these rays have:

· Lighter natural skin color.

· Skin that burns, freckles, gets red easily, or becomes painful from the sun.

· Blond or red hair.

· Blue or green eyes.

· A family member who has had skin cancer.

Which sunscreen should I use?

Use a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Sunscreens come in many forms, including ointments, creams, gels, lotions, wax sticks, and sprays.

Follow the directions on the package for using a sunscreen product on babies less than 6 months old. All products do not have the same ingredients; if you or your child’s skin reacts badly to one product, try another one or call a doctor.

When do I need to apply sunscreen?

The sun’s UV rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. Put on sunscreen before you go outside, even on slightly cloudy or cool days. Remember to put a thick layer on all parts of exposed skin. Get help for hard-to-reach places like your back. Sunscreen wears off, so re-apply it if you stay out in the sun for more than 2 hours and after you swim or are involved in activities that make you sweat.

You can take steps today to protect your skin: