Sun safety: protecting your skin
In short: use shade, clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and put on a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (many experts suggest SPF 30). Reapply it often. Get any new or changing mole or spot checked.
Why it matters
Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can burn the skin, age it early and raise the risk of skin cancer. UV can reach you on cloudy days and is reflected by water, sand and snow.
Ways to protect your skin
- Seek shade, especially around the middle of the day when UV is strongest.
- Cover up with clothing that covers your arms and legs, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
- Use sunscreen on skin you can't cover.
- Avoid tanning beds. They give off UV rays too.
Using sunscreen well
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen (protects against UVA and UVB) with SPF 15 or higher.
- Put on plenty, about 15 minutes before going out.
- Reapply at least every 2 hours, and after swimming, sweating or towelling off.
- Check the expiry date.
- Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sun and ask a doctor or pharmacist before using sunscreen on them.
Sunburn
Cool the skin with a cool shower or damp cloth, drink fluids and stay out of the sun. Get medical help if there's severe blistering, fever, chills, confusion or signs of dehydration.
When to see a doctor about your skin
See a doctor if you notice a new spot, a sore that won't heal, or a mole that changes in size, shape or colour, has an irregular edge, or itches or bleeds.
Sources
- CDC: Sun safety
- MedlinePlus: Sun exposure
- MedlinePlus: Sunburn