by Tess Zasuwa, Kapnick Insurance Group Intern

With the summer months in full swing it is important to protect your body from the negative effects of sunlight. Here are seven simple steps to keep you safe in the sun this summer:

1. Avoid the sun between the hours of 10am and 3pm when the sun’s rays are the strongest and most harmful. Remember: Even though sun is your main source of vitamin D – it doesn’t take long to get your daily dosage.
2. Apply sun screen with an SPF of 15 or higher every two hours to unprotected skin. Remember: Choose a “broad spectrum” screen that will protect again UVA and UVB rays.
3. When exposed to the sun for long hours, wear protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses with 100% UV protection. Remember: Clothing items that have tightly woven fabrics are more protective along with new fabrics that have ultraviolet ray protection already built in.
4. Even on a cloudy day 80% of the sun’s rays are poking through the clouds on an overcast day. Remember: These are the most important days to lather on the sunscreen – don’t let the clouds trick you!
5. Seek shade in the area around you! Remember: You will still feel the warmth of the sun’s rays in the shade but avoid the damaging direct contact.
6. Use cosmetics and chapstick that contain SPF protection. Remember: Reapply frequently as needed to adequately protect your facial skin.
7. When near water, snow or sand use extra preventative measure due to the increased risk of reflecting rays. Remember: Use all the tips stated to help protect your skin when in these conditions with elevated risk.

These simple steps can assure you a safe and skin friendly summer at all your outdoor activities! Skin cancer can strike anyone watch this video about how Giada De Laurentiis lost her brother at age 30 to Melanoma.