Summer is here! That means spending more time with the family, more outdoor activities, and most importantly more exposure to the sun and its harsh UV rays. Increased exposure to UV radiation increases the risk of skin cancer. Due to climate change, the stratospheric ozone is thinning allowing less protection from the sun’s harmful rays, which in result increases the UV radiation levels over time. We advise everyone not to rely on temperature as a guide, but to check the sun protection times daily to see when the UV is forecast to be 3 or above. Using the tips below, challenge yourself to practice good sun safety all through July!
- SPF and How to Apply Sunscreen. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures the length of time a sunscreen product protects against sun exposure. Here are some tips on how to apply sunscreen:
–No spray on sunscreens–this can cause you to miss spots!
–Choosing the right sunscreen-the American Academy of Dermatology recommends consumers choose a sunscreen which states on the label: SPF 30 or higher, broad Spectrum, and water resistant to ensure optimal protection.
–One ounce of sunscreen, enough to fill a shot glass, is considered the amount needed to properly cover your body.
–Broad Spectrum sunscreen-this is one that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Discard your sunscreen after the expiration date. The date should be stamped on the bottle. In most cases, sunscreen will last about 3 years.
- Plan activities around the sun. The sun is at its strongest peak from 10am-4pm. Doing activities outside during non-peak hours will help with UV exposure.
- Cover up. Taking a break from the sun during periods of long exposure can protect your skin from harmful UV rays and you don’t need to coat your skin with extra sunscreen. Take a break from the sun by sitting under an umbrella, finding shade, or stepping indoors for some time. Wear protective clothing when out in the sun, such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a long-sleeved shirt and pants.
- Eyes need protection too! Your skin is not the only thing that can be harmed by UV rays. The intense UV exposure can cause the eyes to tear up and become inflamed. Wearing proper sunglasses can help to combat the harm UV rays can put on your eyes. Dark tinted sunglasses block out 99-100% of UV radiation. The proper sunglasses will prevent eye damage and allow you to better enjoy your surroundings.
Innovative’s Workplace Wellness
Innovative’s Workplace Wellness assists employers in creating a culture of health. Our skilled wellness team works hand-in-hand with organizations to design and implement customized wellness programs that improve your population health and ultimately lower claims costs. Workplace wellness is more than keeping your team physically healthy. It’s about empowering employees to be their best, creating a fully engaged staff and making them advocates of their health. We help employers focus on each individual employee, guiding your team to effectively manage their own mental, physical, and emotional energy so your employees and your business thrive. To learn more, visit here.
