Are You Aware Of The Dangers Of UV Rays?

July is UV Safety Month!
Sarah Thompson
Health, Information Jul 12, 2018 0

July is UV Safety Month! Do you know how to protect yourself from harmful UV rays during long summer days? You’re probably already wearing sunscreen whenever you know you’ll be spending the day outside, but you really should be putting sunscreen on every single day. Make it a part of your morning routine by getting a moisturizer with SPF in it, this will eliminate the need for another product, and it makes it easy for you to remember to put it on every morning. When purchasing sunscreen, check to see what SPF it is, as well as if it’s broad spectrum or not. Broad spectrum sunscreen is recommended as it protects against both UVB and UVA rays.

For more information about SPF and what type of sunscreen you should use when, check out these articles by the Skin Cancer Foundation

Aside from sunscreen, what else can you be doing to protect yourself? Sunglasses and hats! Your eyes need protection from the sun too. Constant exposure to bright sunlight can increase the risks of cataracts and even cancer in the eyes. This doesn’t just mean “don’t look at the sun,” which you definitely should not be doing, but it also means protecting your eyes from the reflection of the sunlight off of things like the sand or a pool. When you’re buying sunglasses look for the label that says either UV400 or 100% UV protection. These types of sunglasses will protect from both UVB and UVA rays. Along with sunglasses, wearing a broad-brimmed hat will help keep the sun out of your eyes throughout the day.

Remember, sunglasses, sunscreen, and sun protection aren’t strictly for sunny summer days, the UV light passes through clouds and reflects off of snow in the winter time. Make sure you are protecting your skin and eyes year round.

For more information on UV Safety month and UV Eye protection check out these posts by the American Academy of Opthalmology.

What are your favorite sunglasses and sunscreen brands? Share with us your favorites and where you purchase them!

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