06/01/11

Sun Safety Precautions

• Wear sun protective clothing and hats: Ultraviolet Protective Factor (UPF) 15-24 is good, 25-39 very good, and 40-50 excellent. Normal clothing loses its protective ability when wet.

• Wear sunglasses—preferably ones with broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) coverage. 

• Seek shade, but remember that one can still be burned from reflective rays and filtered sun through cloud cover. 

• Use extra caution near water, snow and sand. 

• Proper application and reapplication of sunscreen is very important. For the SPF to be achieved, apply at least one ounce (a shot glass full) on the skin, and re-apply frequently (especially after sweating, swimming or drying off with a towel). 

• Apply sunscreen on infants 6 months of age or younger only when adequate clothing and shade are not available. It is advised that sunscreen be applied only on exposed areas.

• Chemical sunscreens (includes those with active ingredients ending with -ate, and -one) may have potential for more skin irritation. 

• Titanium and Zinc oxide are inorganic, active ingredients which are physical blockers (as opposed to chemical). They are typically less irritating and providebroad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection.

• Avoid burns, sun tanning and tanning beds

Grab your hats, sunglasses and sunscreen and have a fun and sun safe summer!