Sun Safety…Just in Time for Canada Day!
As we are well into summer, many of us are enjoying the hot, sunny weather. Please remember to enjoy the sun safely to reduce your risk of harmful effects of prolonged exposure to the sun which can include dry, wrinkled skin and skin cancer. Here are 3 easy tips that you can help you enjoy the sun safely:
- Reduce your exposure to the sun by covering up easy to burn areas. Hats can protect the nose and forehead; shirts with sleeves, or a light scarf worn as a shawl can help protect the shoulders. UV protective sunglasses are a must. There is even UV protective clothing available now.
- Apply a safe and effective sunscreen 15-20 minutes before sun exposure. Re-apply after water exposure and sweating, which breaks down the effective sun protection compounds. Re-applying sunscreen is important even if you wear a high SPF (greater than 50). Read this article to learn why SPF 50+ sunscreens may not be the best thing for you.
- Choose a safe & effective sunscreen with lower levels of chemicals that may cause unwanted health concerns which you can learn about here. Check out this link to the Environmental Working Group’s 2014 list of best beach and sport sunscreens. You can also search for how your sunscreen measures up in terms of safety here.
Enjoy the rest of summer & have a Happy Canada Day!
Odette Bulaong, ND