Take Care of Your Skin in the Summer Sun

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but it also means increased exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. While sunlight can boost mood and help the body produce vitamin D, too much UV exposure can damage skin cells and increase the risk of premature aging, sun damage, and skin cancer. UV exposure accumulates over time and can affect your skin even on cloudy or cooler days, therefore, practicing sun protection year-round is important. 

One of the easiest ways to protect your skin is by consistently using sunscreen. When choosing a sunscreen:

• Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Choose an SPF of 30 or higher.
• Apply sunscreen 15 - 30 minutes before going outdoors.
• Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
• Don't forget commonly missed areas such as the ears, scalp, lips, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.

Remember, sunscreen is just one part of a complete sun protection strategy. Additional ways to protect your skin:

• Seek shade during peak sun hours (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Choose lightweight, long-sleeved clothing when spending extended time outdoors.
• Check the daily UV Index and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
• Stay hydrated, especially during hot summer days.

Regular skin self-exams can help you become familiar with your skin and identify changes early. Once a month, take a few minutes to examine your skin from head to toe, including areas that don't get much sun exposure. Watch for:

• New moles or growths
• Changes in the size, shape or color of existing moles
• Spots that itch, bleed, or don't heal
• Any skin changes that seem unusual for you

A helpful guideline is the "ABCDE" rule for moles:

• Asymmetry – One half doesn't match the other
• Border – Edges are irregular or uneven
• Color – Multiple colors or uneven coloring
• Diameter – Larger than six millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser)
• Evolving – Changes in size, shape, color, or appearance

If you notice any concerning changes, schedule an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist.

Your skin is your body's largest organ and serves as an important protective barrier. Taking a few minutes each day to protect it can reduce your risk of sun damage and support lifelong skin health. This summer, make skin protection part of your wellness routine:

• Apply sunscreen daily
• Wear protective clothing and seek shade when needed
• Perform regular skin self-checks
• Schedule routine skin exams if recommended by your healthcare provider

References:

Froedtert & MCW Dermatology 
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Sun Safety
Mayo Clinic – Skin Care & Healthy Habits
Skin Cancer Foundation
Nutritional Dermatology: Optimizing Dietary Choices for Skin Health – PMC