July is UV Safety Month: Tips to Protect Yourself from Harmful UV Rays

Protecting your skin from sunburn is important, not only in the summer but throughout the year. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, whether from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds, can lead to sunburn, skin damage, and a higher risk of skin cancer and premature aging. July, being UV Safety Month, is a great time to educate yourself and take steps to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation.

Who is at Risk for UV Damage?

UV rays can harm people of all skin tones, but those with light-colored skin, hair, or eyes are particularly susceptible. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals with a family history of skin cancer are also at an elevated risk. Spending long hours outdoors in the sun without protecting your skin increases the chance of UV damage. Because certain medications also may heighten sun sensitivity, it is important to consult health care providers about necessary precautions.

How to Protect Yourself from UV Rays

The CDC indicates that UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during daylight saving time (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. standard time) in the continental United States. To minimize your exposure during these peak hours, follow these helpful tips:

1. Seek Shade. Whenever possible, stay under cover to avoid direct sunlight. Utilize trees, umbrellas, or any available shade to reduce your exposure to UV rays.
2. Wear Protective Clothing. Cover up with long-sleeve shirts, pants, or clothes made from tightly woven fabric. Dark-colored and dry clothing offer better UV protection than light-colored or wet garments. Consider purchasing UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing for added safety.
3. Choose a Wide-Brim Hat. Select hats that provide shade to your face, ears, and the back of your neck. Darker hats or those made of tightly woven fabric, such as canvas, offer better protection compared to straw hats, which allow sunlight to penetrate.
4. Wear Sunglasses. Protect your eyes from lengthy UV exposure by wearing sunglasses with 100 percent UV-protective coating. Oversized or wraparound styles can block UV rays from entering the eyes from the sides, reducing the risk of eye damage and cataracts.
5. Use Sunscreen. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to all exposed skin. Remember, sunscreen is typically not recommended for babies under six months old; instead, keep them in the shade and dress them in protective clothing and hats.
6. Educate Children. Kids spend a lot of time outdoors and are prone to sunburn. Teach them about the dangers of UV exposure and the importance of wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.
7. Avoid Tanning Beds. Tanning beds emit UV radiation that increases the risk of long-term skin damage and skin cancer. Choose safer alternatives like self-tanning lotions if you desire a tanned look.
8. Get Enough Vitamin D. While sunlight helps the skin produce Vitamin D, it can also be obtained through dietary sources and supplements. Balance sun exposure with other sources to maintain healthy levels of this essential vitamin.

Why UV Safety Matters

Understanding and practicing these UV protection measures is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Long-term and unprotected exposure to UV rays can cause immediate effects like sunburn and other consequences, including skin cancer and premature aging. By taking simple steps to protect your skin, you can enjoy outdoor activities safely and reduce the risk of serious health issues.

Visit Us for Your UV Protection Needs

July serves as a timely reminder to prioritize UV safety and protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. By seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and educating children about sun safety, you can significantly reduce the risk of skin damage. UV protection is essential year-round, so make these practices a part of your daily routine.

Before you head out to the beach or enjoy the great outdoors this summer, visit Carmichael’s Crowley location. We offer a wide selection of over-the-counter sunscreen brands to help protect your skin from harmful UV rays. We also provide a variety of supplements to meet your Vitamin D requirements. Stay protected and enjoy the sunshine responsibly this UV Safety Month!