Quick Tips for Sun Safety from the AAD

The following are some facts about UVR (ultra violet radiation) that are important to keep in mind in your day to day life, even if you aren’t “sun bathing.” Information used with permission from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

• Shade only lessens UVR exposure. Sunburn from scattered or reflected UVR can still occur in shaded areas.

• Certain surfaces reflect UVR. Water reflects up to 30% of UVR; dry sand up to 18%; concrete 12%; and grass 5%.

• UVR increases with altitude.

• 70-80% of the total UVR from the sun on a midsummer day is received between 9am and 4pm.

• UVR damages the eyes. A wide brim hat reduces the amount of UVR reaching the cornea of the eye by 50%. Sunglasses, if UV protective, can filter out as much as 95% of UV rays. Check the certificate on any sunglasses you are planning to purchase.

• SPF 15 sunscreen protects against 93% of UVR. SPF 30 protects against 98%. As you can see, the difference between the two are not great. Therefore don’t be as concerned about the SPF number on your bottle of sunscreen; do concentrate on applying enough sunscreen and, if exposure is prolonged, you must reapply frequently.

• Medication can make your skin more sensitive to UVR.

You can prevent (or at least curtail) UVR exposure. Please take this information to heart, and always wear sunscreen!

For more information, see:

• Sun Exposure & Skin Cancer
• Questions about SPF numbers and sun protection
• Skin changes due to sun exposure