“Fun in the sun” pretty much sums up summer. And we want to make sure your season exceeds this expectation by sharing our top UV Safety Month tips for protecting your skin.
Perhaps surprisingly, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. While we know getting a burn is a no-no, we might not realize (or remember) that there are no safe ultraviolet rays, meaning even suntans. UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds is actually classified as a human carcinogen by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the World Health Organization. The health risks associated with overexposure include cancer, premature aging, cataracts, and immune system suppression impacting the skin’s natural defenses. The good news, says the EPA, is that “unprotected exposure to UV radiation is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer.”
Try making these five healthy habits part of your daily routine, so you can live and play outdoors while reducing your overall sun exposure and risk (in this case, too much of a good thing isn’t wonderful)….
Be shade-y. UV rays can harm your eyes, and your kids’ too. Protect against cataracts and macular degeneration later in life by slipping on some shades — even babies six months or older should sport them outside. Children’s skin around their eyelid and the eye itself are more vulnerable to the sun’s penetrating rays. When buying sunglasses, the National Eye Institute and SkinCancer.org say opt for ones that block 99-100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays and feature a durable design that is playground proof for an active lifestyle.
Seek Top Cover. Sunglasses alone aren’t enough to protect the delicate skin of your face from the sun, so dial up your summer style with a hat. Wear one with a wide brim because it protects your neck, ears, eyes, forehead, nose, and scalp. Check out these fashionable + functional options for kids.
Apply Sunscreen. Always. While bronzed skin is mistakenly associated with good health, the truth is that there is no such thing as a good base tan or, worse, burn. UV rays harm your skin, even if you can’t see the effects of the damage immediately. So, guard against skin cancer by applying sunscreen properly — it’s the most important product to use according to Yale Dermatologist and Professor Mona Gohara.
When selecting a sunscreen, Christopher Gavigan recommends using a broad spectrum option that’s SPF 15 or higher (SPF 30 works well for most people) and free of potentially toxic ingredients like PABA, oxybenzone, nanoparticles, parabens, phthalates, and dyes. Our Honest sunscreen lotion, spray, and stick are great choices.
Wear Protective Clothing. Double up on sun protection by wearing clothing that shields your skin from the overhead rays. A tip: If you can see your hand through the material, it probably won’t offer you much protection. Instead, invest in stylish pieces made from dark, tightly woven fabric or sport sets made specifically for safe play in the sun or shade with UPF 50 (this gear blocks 97% of the sun’s rays!).
Be prepared on the go. Summer — and let’s face it, life — are full of unexpected adventures. We wander through a new city’s streets enjoying a gelato. We get stuck in vacation traffic at high noon during our annual road trip. Or we take an unintentional nap at the beach after reading a good book. When we’re outdoors longer than intended, our skin often turns a little too pink. Remember to plan ahead and keep various forms of sun protection pre-packed in your purse, backpack, and beach bag. We’re fans of having a few versatile extras on hand, like our new sunscreen stick that’s easy to carry with you. Then you’ll always be covered on the go.
What are your sun safety tips for a happy and healthy summer?
We aim to provide you with the most honest and credible information possible. This article was reviewed for accuracy by The Honest Team and its internal technical experts.
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