Happy July!
July is UV awareness month, a great time to learn more about ultraviolet (UV) radiation, sun safety and simple steps we can take to protect our skin and overall health while enjoying the summer months.
Many of us spend more time outdoors during July, whether working, exercising, attending events, or spending time with family and friends. While sunshine has benefits, including helping our bodies produce vitamin D, too much exposure can increase the risk of sunburn, premature skin aging, eye damage, and skin cancer.
UV rays can affect us even on cloudy days, as up to 80% of UV radiation can pass through clouds. Water, sand, concrete, and other reflective surfaces can also increase exposure by reflecting UV rays back onto the skin.
A few tips to keep in mind this month:
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before going outdoors.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. Remember that higher SPF does not always mean significantly better protection. Choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapplying it regularly is more important than selecting the highest SPF available as people tend to think higher SPF mean they don’t need to reapply.
Wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses that block UV rays.
Seek shade when possible, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are the strongest.
Stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
Check your skin regularly for any new or changing moles, spots, or lesions.
Sun Safety Tip: Spray sunscreens can be effective when used correctly, but many people do not apply enough to achieve the SPF protection listed on the label. Applying a generous amount and rubbing it in can help ensure more even coverage. When applying spray sunscreen to the face, spray it onto your hands first and then apply it to your face rather than spraying it directly onto the face.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable. Early detection and routine skin checks can help identify concerns before they become more serious. If you notice any changes in your skin or have concerns about sun exposure, consider speaking with a healthcare provider. ACHD also hosts a Skin Cancer Screening Clinic provided by Boone Heath Community Wellness. These screenings can help identify potential concerns early and provide an opportunity to discuss any skin changes with a healthcare professional. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, please reach out to Kerry for information on upcoming clinic dates and availability.
July brings a few summer wellness reminders and observances:
Independence Day (July 4th)- Enjoy celebrations safely by staying hydrated, using sun protection, and practicing firework safety.
National Ice Cream Sundae Day (July 8th)- A reminder that wellness is about balance. Take time to enjoy your favorite summer treats.
Summer travel season- Whether you are traveling near or far, remember to pack medications, drink plenty of water, wear your seat belt, and take breaks when needed.
Heat safety- High temperatures can increase the risk of heat-related illness. Know the signs of heat exhaustion and take cooling breaks when necessary.
Pick one or two of the following to focus on this month:
Apply sunscreen daily for one full week, even on cloudy days.
Wear a hat or sunglasses whenever spending time outdoors.
Take a few minutes to perform a skin self-check and become familiar with any moles or spots.
Schedule a preventative health visit or annual skin exam if you are due and encourage a friend or family member to do the same.
Check the UV index before heading outdoors this month.
Keep sunscreen in your bag so it is easily accessible.
Take care of yourself this month and remember that simple daily habits today can help protect your health for years to come.
