Be Sun Safe

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. The good news is—it’s largely preventable! Follow these simple tips to Be Sun Safe.

Sun Smarts: How to Protect Yourself

1. Apply Sunscreen Generously

At least 20 minutes before going outside, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. Use about one ounce of sunscreen to cover all exposed skin.

 

2. Reapply All Day Long

Reapply regularly—every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating, even with water-resistant varieties.

 

3. Remember Easy-to-Miss Spots

Remember to apply sunscreen to the back of the neck, lips, ears, feet, hands and exposed scalp.

 

4. Check Sunscreen’s Expiration Date

Have leftover sunscreen from last season?  Sunscreen becomes less effective over time.

 

5. Avoid Burning & Tanning

Sunburn and tanning cause wrinkles and increase the risk of developing skin cancer—especially for children.

 

6. Cover Up!

Protect yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, pants and a long-sleeve shirt when possible.

Wear Sunscreen Everyday

Sunscreen’s not just for sunny days.  Damaging UV rays can pass through clouds and are reflected off of water, sand, snow and even concrete. UVA rays even pass through glass windows and are the main cause of premature aging. To retain a youthful appearance, make sunscreen part of your daily routine. Apply to exposed skin, especially your hands and face, every single day!

 

The Sunshine Vitamin

Worried sunscreen will impair your absorption of the sunshine vitamin?  Sunscreen does reduce the skin’s production of vitamin D; however, intentional sun exposure is NOT recommended.

Instead, get vitamin D safely with a diet rich in fish, eggs, fortified milk and take vitamin D supplements as directed.  Contact the Weis Dietitians for more info on vitamin D.

Medications

Certain medications can increase sun sensitivity. Ask your local Weis Pharmacist about your medications.

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