Summer Is Coming: Let's Talk Sun Safety

There are many benefits to spending time outside. Exposure to natural light can help improve mood and energy levels, while physical activity in nature can lead to increased fitness and overall well-being. Additionally, time spent in nature can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

There are some downsides to spending time in the sun. Heat exhaustion can occur when the body becomes overheated and cannot cool itself down. Dehydration happens when the body does not have enough fluids, and sunburn is caused by exposure to ultraviolet rays.

Another downside of spending too much time in the sun is exposure to UV rays. Too much

exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of skin cancer. UV radiation from the sun is one of the main causes of skin cancer and is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States, with over a hundred thousand cases a year.

If you or someone you know is feeling ill or overheated from the sun, visit IM & PC’s urgent care.

How to Protect Your Skin From the Sun

When outside, there are multiple ways to protect yourself from the sun.

Sunscreen

Before going out, apply sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of 15 or higher. Sunscreen performs best in conjunction with other methods. Make sure to cover all

exposed skin with a thick layer.

Shade

It may be difficult to find the right shade while on the go, but staying in the shade beneath an

awning, tree, or other shelters will reduce sun damage and skin cancer risk. Even when you're in the shade, applying sunscreen or wearing protective clothing is your best defense against skin damage.

Clothing

Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and skirts to avoid UV damage. If wearing this clothing isn't an option, consider putting on a T-shirt or a beach cover-up. A wet T-shirt has less UV protection than a dry one, and darker colors offer more protection than lighter ones. Tightly woven fabrics like sateen, denim, cotton, and flannel give the best protection.

Headwear

Wear a hat with a brim that fully covers your face, ears, and the back of your neck for the most protection. Avoid wearing straw hats with holes that allow sunlight to enter. A darker hat may offer more UV protection. If you wear a baseball cap, make sure your ears and the back of your neck are covered, apply sunscreen, or seek shade.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses prevent UV rays from damaging your eyes and reduce the risk of cataracts. They also protect the delicate tissue around your eyes from the sun. Sunglasses that block both UVA and

UVB rays offer the best protection. Wearing wrap-around sunglasses is highly recommended because they block UV radiation from coming in from the sides.

Conclusion

Summertime is a great time to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a safe and fun summer in the sun.

If you feel ill or overheated from the sun, visit I M & PC’s urgent care.

About IM&PC

Located in New Albany, Mississippi, we have consistently been named one of the Southeast’s top-performing pediatric care and internal medicine practices. Some of our services include

chronic disease treatment, immunizations, adoption, and DOT physicals, sick visits, and adult and pediatric wellness visits.