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Sunshine has many known positive effects, and it encourages us to get outside and enjoy many fun activities. GRH Walk-In Clinic provider Aprill Graham, NP-C, reminds us to be smart and safe about our exposure to the sun. 

By Aprill Graham, NP-C, GRH Walk-In Clinic

Sunshine has many known positive effects, and it encourages us to get outside and enjoy many fun activities. It is important to remember as we spend more time outdoors, however, to be smart and safe about our exposure to the sun.

Our body’s largest and fastest growing organ is the skin.  It serves to regulate our body temperature, and protects our inner organs as well as other critical body functions.  We must do our part to protect and preserve this vital organ. 

Some tips to keep you having fun in the sun all summer long include using a broad-spectrum - which means it blocks both UVA and UVB rays - water-resistant sunscreen with a sun-protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Be sure to apply it to all areas of skin exposed to the sun at least 30 minutes before you go outside.  It is also very important to re-apply sunscreen about every two hours, more frequently if you are swimming or sweating. And don’t forget to use sunscreen on cloudy days, too!

Stay in the shade when possible, especially when the sun’s rays are the strongest, which is usually between 10am and 4pm.  One trick to remember this by is that if you are taller than your shadow, it’s time to get in the shade.

Be aware that water, sand, and snow all reflect the sun which can increase your risk for sunburn and skin cancers.   Use clothing to cover up and wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses that block UV rays.

The best way to avoid skin cancers is to not get a sunburn.  According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, your risk of developing melanoma doubles if you’ve ever had five or more sunburns. 

While we love to have fun in the sun and all the activities the warm summer months bring, it is very important to take steps to avoid the damage sun can cause to our skin: premature aging, wrinkles, age spots, leathery skin and sunburns.  Stay safe this summer by staying hydrated, cool, and being mindful to take appropriate steps to avoid painful sunburns while enjoying your outdoor activities.

Aprill Graham, NP-C is a provider at the GRH Walk-In Clinic.