Sun Safety

Did you know that August is Summer Sun Safety Month? It’s true! As we enter the hottest part of summer, Pathways to Natural Health would like to discuss sun safety.

While we all love basking in the summer sunshine, it is important to remember the negative effects of the sun’s UV rays; these effects include sun spots & skin aging, as well as more serious effects like skin cancer.
Thus, the doctors at Pathways to Natural Health recommend taking the following proactive steps to minimize these negative effects.

Limit your Exposure

UV rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm; therefore, it is recommended to seek shade or avoid sun exposure during the middle of the day.

A good rule of thumb is: if your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s rays are the strongest, and you should make every effort to protect yourself.

Cover Up

Different types of clothing provide different levels of UV protection; dark colors, tightly woven fabrics, and dry fabrics are generally more protective. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or long skirts cover the most skin and are, therefore, the most protective.

Be aware that covering up does not block out all UV rays; if you can see light through a fabric, UV rays can get through, too!

Wear Sunglasses

Research has shown that long hours in the sun increase your chances of developing certain eye diseases.

Ideally, sunglasses should block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Labels that say “UV absorption up to 400 nm” or “Meets ANSI UV Requirements” mean the glasses block at least 99% of UV rays; whereas, those labeled "cosmetic" only block about 70% of UV rays. Darker glasses are not necessarily more protective; UV protection comes from an invisible chemical in or applied to the lenses.

And remember, children need smaller versions of real, protective adult sunglasses – not toy sunglasses.

Choose a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen with an SPF Value of 30 or Higher

Sunscreen reduces your overall UV exposure and lowers your risk of skin cancer and sun damage. When putting on sunscreen, pay close attention to your face, ears, neck, arms, and any other areas not covered by clothing. If you’re going to wear insect repellent or makeup, put the sunscreen on first. The average adult should, ideally, use about 1 ounce of sunscreen (about a shot glass or palmful) to cover the arms, legs, neck, & face. Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every 2 hours to maintain protection, or more often if swimming or sweating.

See our Instagram for more information, and visit the EWG’s website for their guide of sun safety products.