Why is sunscreen essential for safe summer wellness?

Taking care of yourself in the summer is essential.

Sunscreen is essential during the summer, even on cloudy days, as UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds. According to Stanford Medicine, UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburns and may lead to skin cancer, are 400 times more potent in the summer months.

When used as directed alongside other sun protection strategies, sunscreens can help prevent sunburn and lower the risks of skin cancer and premature skin aging caused by sun exposure. Therefore, it is vital that these products are both effective and safe for their intended applications.

Self-care during the summer is important, so ensure your protection by adhering to these five sunscreen guidelines:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays and has a minimum 15 SPF

• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours

• You should also reapply sunscreen after sweating or swimming

• Limit time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most intense.

• Wear clothing to cover skin exposed to the sun, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses, and broad-brimmed hats.