There are lots of good reasons to protect your skin from the sun's ultraviolet, or UV, rays ... like preventing sunburn and preventing early aging and wrinkling of your skin ...
and lowering your risk for skin cancer.
You can protect your skin in a few simple ways.
One: The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
So whenever you can, try to stay out of the sun or find shade during these times.
And if you're going to be near water, snow, or sand ... be extra careful, because the sun's rays reflect off all of these and make getting a sunburn more likely.
Two: Cover up.
Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade your face and neck ...
clothes that cover your arms and legs ... and sunglasses that block UV rays.
You might also look for clothing made with sun-protective fabric.
And three: Use sunscreen.
Choose a sunscreen that has a sun protection factor ... or SPF ... of 30 or higher ...
and that says "broad spectrum."
Put on plenty of sunscreen 30 minutes before you go out in the sun.
Be sure you put it on all of your skin that will be exposed ...
including your nose, ears, neck, scalp, and lips.
Now ... keep your sunscreen handy.
You'll need to put on more every 2 hours while you're out in the sun ...
and after swimming, exercising, or sweating a lot.
If you have kids, teach them these safe-sun habits early.
A child's skin is more sensitive to the sun than an adult's, and it can burn more easily.
And ... if you have a baby younger than 6 months, it's best to keep your baby out of the sun.
Protect your baby's skin during short exposures too ...
like carrying your baby from the car into your house.
Use a hat and clothing to protect the baby's skin.
Anytime you're out in the sun, remember to find shade ...
cover up ... and use sunscreen.
Taking these steps can help you ... and your family ... stay safe in the sun.
So ... have you heard anything here that you could try?
