Your Skin and The Sun
- MedReport Foundation
- 11 minutes ago
- 3 min read
By: Megan Meier
Summer is just around the corner, as are the increase in sunburns and the risk of skin
cancer. Although those with fair complexions are at higher risk of skin cancer, too much
sun exposure can affect any skin color (2). Precautions while outside are necessary to
prevent skin cancer. When possible, avoid exposure to midday sunlight (3), the sun’s
rays are strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (4). If the UV (ultraviolet) index of
the day is three or higher, take these precautions when going outside:
Clothing
Wear UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) clothing, ideally with long sleeves and long
pants. The higher the UPF, the higher the protection. UPF 50+ is ideal as it allows only
1/50 th of UV radiation to reach your skin, blocking 98% of the sun’s rays (5). Also wear a
broad-rimmed hat of three inches or more, enough to cover your face, neck, and
shoulders. A hat with a wide brim and tight knit will prevent skin cancers of the head and
neck, particularly those hidden in the scalp (5). Find a pair of sunglasses with UVA and
UVB protection that wrap around your face as it protects the skin around the eyes (4).
Sunscreen
Find a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30. Check the label for
the phrase “broad spectrum” as this protects against UVA and UVB rays (6). Before
application check the expiration date of the sunscreen, it typically expires in three years
and will lose its effectiveness. If it has become watery, clumpy, has a change in smell or
color, discard and buy another bottle of sunscreen (7).
Apply 30 minutes before going outside and reapply at least every two hours and
immediately after swimming. If swimming or prone to sweating, use a water resistant
sunscreen. If expecting extended outdoor activity, use sunscreen with SPF of 50 or
higher. Apply sunscreen liberally and check for missed spots, and don’t forget your
hands and ears (6). Use a SPF 30+ lip balm as well because lips are highly susceptible
to skin cancer (8).
Taking these steps will reduce skin damage done by the sun’s rays. Even with these
steps, it is necessary to be aware of your skin’s condition. Examine your skin head-to-
toe at least once a month for any changes or abnormalities and consult your
dermatologist at least once a year for a professional skin examination (9).
References
1. Sand S. Rustic Pathways [Internet]. Rustic Pathways. 2026 [cited 2026 May 9].
Available from: https://rusticpathways.com/students/programs/sun-sand-and-
international-service. (Source for image)
2. Skin Cancer on Black and Brown Skin [Internet]. National Cancer Institute:
Bethesda, MD. November 12, 2024. Available from:
3. About Skin Cancer [Internet]. National Human Geonome Institute. Bethesda, MD.
October 30, 2012. Available from: https://www.genome.gov/Genetic-Disorders/Skin-
Cancer
4. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Reducing Risk for Skin Cancer
[Internet]. February 10, 2026. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/skin-
cancer/prevention/.
5. Skin Cancer Foundation. Sun Protective Clothing - The Skin Cancer Foundation
[Internet]. The Skin Cancer Foundation. 2018. Available from:
clothing/
6. Skin Cancer Foundation. Sun Protection - The Skin Cancer Foundation [Internet].
The Skin Cancer Foundation. May 2025. Available from:
7. Coppertone. Does Sunscreen Expire? How Long is It Good for? | Coppertone
[Internet]. Coppertone.com. Beiersdorf; 2024. Available from:
8. Zemła-Krawczyk M, Sarecka-Hujar B. Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Protective
Lipsticks with Different Sun Protection Factor Values Against UVA and Infrared
Radiation. Processes [Internet]. 2025 Sep 8;13(9):2864. Available from:
9. Skin Cancer Foundation. Skin Cancer Prevention - The Skin Cancer Foundation
[Internet]. The Skin Cancer Foundation. 2018. Available from:
