Sun Safety Tips

As we are right in the middle of summer, spending more time outside, it is important to stay protected from the sun, and the damage it can do. While it is important to protect yourself all year around, no matter the weather, summertime is when we are exposed the most.

Sun exposure can cause sunburn, skin aging, eye damage, and skin cancer, the most common of all cancers. In 2018, there were an estimated 1.3 million people living with melanoma of the skin in the U.S. About 4.3 million people are treated for basal cell cancer and squamous cell skin cancer in the U.S. every year, according to a report from the Office of the Surgeon General. (www.fda.gov)

Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging, no matter your skin type. All skin colors are at risk. Here are a few keyways to reduce your risk:

• Limiting your time in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most intense.
• Wearing clothing to cover skin exposed to the sun, such as long-sleeve shirts, pants, sunglasses, and broad-brim hats. Sun-protective clothing is now available.
• Using broad spectrum sunscreens with a SPF value of 15 or higher regularly and as directed

It is also recommended that even on cloudy days, you should use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Be sure to apply sunscreen liberally and reapply every two hours.

As a member of IRHC, your plan benefits cover seeing the dermatologist so never hesitate to make an appointment if you notice a spot on your skin that looks concerning.