5 Smart Ways to Protect Your Skin From the Sun

As the days grow longer and the sun's rays get stronger, it's time to think about keeping your skin protected and sun damage-free.  Here are five simple ways to shield yourself from harm.

1. Cover Up

Wear sunglasses, hats and other protective clothing if you are going to be in the sun.  A hat with a wide brim that goes all the way around is best, and canvas beach cover-ups are also a good choice.  Make sure the sunglasses you decide to wear block both UVA and UVB rays.

2. Wear Sunscreen

By now, you would think that most people know that this is extremely important, but you might be surprised how many sun lovers still believe you don't need sunscreen if your skin tans, or if you live in a cold climate, or if you only spend a short amount of time outdoors.  The fact is, sun damage can occur in as little as 15 minutes, even if it is cloudy.  Wear at least an SPF 15 sunblock and don't forget to reapply every two hours or after you have gone in water.

3. Avoid Sun During the 10-2 PM Hours

This is when the sun is strongest, so if at all possible, you'll want to avoid being outside and in the sun during these hours.  If you need to be, be sure to wear protective clothing and sunscreen of course!  A little known fact: UV rays are the greatest in North America during late spring and early summer.

4. Seek Shade

Again, if you must be out in the sun--especially during peak hours--look for a shaded spot.  If you are going to be at the beach or by the pool, a large umbrella is your best bet.  No umbrella?  A large, leafy tree can help provide shelter from the sun.

5. Avoid Tanning Beds

Although artificial light has been well-documented as causing skin damage and skin cancer, tanning salons remain in business.  This type of light is often worse for the skin than regular sunlight.  It is never a good idea to use them, no matter how in vogue it may seem to have a golden bronze glow.

The majority of the 1 million+ cases of non-melanoma skin cancer that are diagnosed in the U.S. every year are sun-related.  Just as frightening, there are over 11,000 deaths from skin cancer each year, so be smart--stay out of the sun as much as possible.  If you do spend time in the sun, be sure to protect yourself--so you can avoid ending up as just another statistic.