Most people know that being in the sun without the proper protection can be harmful to the body’s biggest organ, the skin.
Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause sunburn, premature aging, and increased risk of developing skin cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, there were an estimated 100,640 new cases of skin melanomas and 8,290 related deaths in 2024.
SPF 101: Sunscreen Basics
Sunburn happens when the sun’s invisible UV rays damage the skin. Using sunscreen with the right amount of SPF (Sun Protection Factor) can help protect you from the sun. Everyone, regardless of age, should use SPF 30 or higher; however, the ingredients in the sunscreen are just as important in determining its effectiveness. According to Northwestern Medicine, SPF 30 blocks 97% of sun rays while SPF 50 blocks 98%; meaning, the higher the SPF, the smaller the difference.
When choosing between a broad-spectrum sunscreen as opposed to regular SPF sunscreen, it is recommended to choose broad-spectrum products. Northwestern Medicine said that broad-spectrum sunscreens protect the skin from both UVB (burning rays) and UVA (aging rays), while SPF sunscreen only protects against UVB. Consumers are also encouraged to stay away from sunscreen products that contain oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate, as these ingredients can be harmful to hormone health and increase chances of developing skin cancer.
Safe Practices to Avoid Skin Damage
There are several things you can do to ensure you are keeping your skin protected from the sun. Whether it’s your wardrobe or knowing when to stay inside, here are some tips to stay safe.
- Wear long-sleeved, lightweight pants and shirts, wide brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
- Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating.
- Check expiration dates on sunscreen bottles; most expire after three years.
- Avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Seek shade whenever possible.
According to CaroMont Health, even on gloomy days and during the winter, 80% of the sun’s UV rays can get through the clouds and penetrate the skin. Don’t be fooled by the weather — the sun is a powerful force of Mother Nature any time of year.
Sun Poisoning: Severe Sunburns
Sun poisoning is a term used to describe a severe sunburn. Symptoms of sun poisoning are the same as a typical sunburn, but they’re much more serious. According to the National Cancer Institute, over 33,000 sunburns are reported that require emergency room visits annually.
Symptoms of Sun Poisoning:
- Dehydration
- Skin Infection
- Headache, nausea, vomiting
- Fever or chills
If you are experiencing symptoms of sun poisoning:
- Get out of the sun to prevent further sun exposure.
- Take a cool shower and apply cool compresses to the affected areas to cool down the body.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water and electrolyte drinks. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they dehydrate the body.
- Apply aloe vera or soothing lotions to help calm and hydrate the skin.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers to help with pain and inflammation.
- Protect blisters with a clean, loose bandage, and do not pop them.
- Seek medical attention if you develop a high fever, severe pain, confusion, or show signs of dehydration.
Be Sun Smart!
Adopting sun-safe habits to protect your skin can help you stay healthy during the heat of the summer and the cold of winter. The hottest months of the year pose the biggest threat to our skin, and it’s important to know how to combat the sun’s powerful rays to avoid damage.