Quick Tips for Sun Safety
– A Message from Healthy Acadia’s Working on Wellness (WoW) Team
As we enjoy the warmth and brightness of the summer season, it’s the perfect time to remind ourselves of a simple but powerful way to protect our health—sun safety.
Whether you’re commuting, out on a lunch break, or enjoying time outdoors on the weekends, your skin is always exposed to UV rays, even on cloudy days. And the impact is more serious than just a sunburn. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the leading cause of skin cancer, one of the most common cancers in the United States.
Why Sun Protection Matters
1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70.
Daily sun exposure adds up. You don’t have to be at the beach to be at risk.
UV rays can damage your skin even through windows and on cloudy days.
1. Use sunscreen every day.
Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Apply 15 minutes before going outside—and don’t forget your ears, neck, and hands!
2. Reapply often.
Sunscreen wears off! Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
3. Wear protective clothing.
Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses help shield your skin.
4. Seek shade during peak hours.
Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the sun is strongest. If you can, stay in the shade.
5. Perform regular skin checks.
Keep an eye out for new or changing moles or spots. Early detection saves lives.
Don’t Forget: Sun Protection is a Daily Habit
Even short bursts of exposure—like walking to your car or sitting by a sunny window—can add up over time. Make sunscreen part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth.
Do you have a favorite sunscreen or other sun protection method you want to share with everyone?
Stay safe, stay bright, and don’t forget your SPF!