Alert
Protect Your Skin in the Sun
June 5, 2008

Sun Safety Tips for the Family

• Stay out of the sun during the hours between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. when the sun's rays are strongest.
• Do not use tanning beds.
• Wear light colored long pants, long-sleeves, hats and sunglasses.
• Always use sunscreen:  Use a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Look for a sunscreen that protects from both kinds of ultraviolet rays (UVA and UVB). Apply it 30 minutes before going outdoors. Apply it evenly and often, and reapply it after getting out of the water. Use it even on cloudy days - clouds do not block the sun's ultraviolet rays.

Sun Safe Tips for Babies

• Do not let babies younger than 6 months old be in direct sun.
• Make sure they are in the shade of a tree, an umbrella, or a stroller top.
• Dress babies in light clothing.
• Be sure to keep their arms, legs and heads covered.

Sun Safety Tips for Kids

• Dress children in cotton, it is cool and protects skin well.
• Choose sunscreen made just for kids. Waterproof is best.
• Have children wear hats. Hats can protect the face, ears, nose and lips.

More information on sun safety and skin cancer detection.