Sun Safety: Tips For Protecting Your Skin

Outdoor activities, particularly those on the water, can create a higher risk for UV exposure. UV rays can damage your skin and eyes. However, there are steps you can take to protect your skin while you are having fun outdoors.

Protect Your Skin & Eyes

Wear UV blocking sunglasses outside to protect your eyes. Choose a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher and a broad spectrum (both UVA and UVB coverage). Sunscreen should ideally be applied 20 minutes prior to sun exposure and reapplied every 2 hours, sooner if swimming or sweating.

Sun Safety For Babies Under 6 Months

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants avoid sun exposure and are dressed in lightweight long pants, long-sleeve shirts, and brimmed hats that shade the neck to prevent sunburn.

Parents can apply a minimal amount of sunscreen with at least 15 SPF to small areas, such as the infant’s face and the back of the hands. Physical blockers are recommended for infants. Physical blockers have minerals like zinc oxide and stay on top of the skin to deflect and scatter damaging UV rays away from the skin.

Watch the full Skin Cancer Prevention & Identification Video here.

Need to schedule a dermatology appointment?

To schedule your first dermatology visit call 320-763-2899 to make an appointment or visit your primary care provider.

If you’ve seen Dr. Harvey before, schedule your dermatology visit today.