inHealth & Wellness

Embrace UV Safety Month: Top 6 Sun Protection Tips to Adopt Now

by/June 27, 2024
Protecting all members of your family from UV rays is critical. In this picture, a mother applying sunscreen on girl's face as outline during UV Safety Month

Empower Your Sun Protection Strategy this Summer During UV Safety Month with these Six Effective Tips to Protect You and Your Family.

The sun is shining, the BBQs are grilling, and the summer spirit is in full swing. July not only marks the heart of summer but also UV Safety Month, an initiative by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure our sun-filled activities don’t take a toll on our health.

Here at the Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund (FEEA), we want to keep our federal family safe and radiant. Therefore, we’ve crafted these essential sun safety tips as part of our #FedLifeHacks series.

  • Tip 1: Master Your Sunscreen Routine

    Sunscreen is your armor against the sun’s damaging UV rays. A broad-spectrum sunscreen guards you against both UVA and UVB rays. Always choose one with an SPF 30 or higher, apply it 20-30 minutes before heading outdoors, and remember to reapply every 2 hours.

    Sunscreen isn’t just for the beach; it’s a daily essential. A small daily habit can have a significant impact on your long-term skin health.

  • Tip 2: Dress for Sun Defense

    What you wear is crucial for sun protection. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colors help reflect the sun’s rays. For an extra shield, consider sun shirts and UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing with additives designed to block more UV rays.

    Invest in a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.

  • Tip 3: Prioritize Eye Protection

    UV radiation can lead to eye conditions like cataracts and increase the risk of ocular melanoma. Sunglasses are more than a style statement—they shield your eyes from harmful UV light. Choose sunglasses with labels indicating they provide 100% UV protection.

  • Tip 4: Be Sunwise with Technology

    UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. They can even bounce off surfaces like water, sand, or pavement, leading to increased UV exposure. The free SunWise UV Index app from the EPA provides real-time UV index information, helping you plan outdoor activities around sun intensity. Knowledge is your best tool in sun safety.

  • Tip 5: Embrace Shade and Hydration

    Aside from skin protection, overall body care is crucial. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak UV hours. And remember, hydration is key. Water helps cool your body and replenishes fluids lost through sweating.

  • Bonus Tip: Regular Skin Checks

    Make a habit of performing self-examinations every month. Alert your doctor about new spots, changes in existing spots, or anything that looks suspicious. A yearly dermatologist visit for a full skin exam is a wise decision.

This summer, as we enjoy the golden sun, the cooling water, and the spirit of fun and relaxation, let’s make a conscious effort to protect our skin and overall health. It begins with applying sunscreen, wearing the right clothes, and being mindful of the UV Index. It continues with prioritizing our eye health, seeking shade and hydration, and regularly checking our skin. But it certainly doesn’t end there.

Embracing sun savvy practices isn’t a task designated only for the hot summer months—it’s a vital commitment all year long. As the seasons change, we must remember to continue these practices. The sun may seem less harsh in the cooler months, but UV rays don’t go on vacation. Consistency is key in protection, and it’s our best defense against the long-term effects of sun damage.

Stay tuned for more #FedLifeHacks. Together, we’ll continue to explore effective ways to make the most of our federal benefits, nurture our health, and enhance our lifestyle, not just for the summer, but for all the days to come!

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The information provided in this piece is for your convenience and informational purposes only and not to be construed as professional advice. FEEA and its coauthors and sponsors are not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act with regard to the content in this piece.

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Tags:#family, #skinhealth, #sunscreen, summer