At SoNE HEALTH Medical Group, we believe prevention is one of the most important tools in achieving lifelong wellness. That’s why we’re highlighting the importance of sun safety and offering practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
Understanding the Risks of UV Exposure
The sun emits two types of UV rays that reach us on Earth—UVA and UVB:
- UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are primarily responsible for premature aging and long-term skin damage.
- UVB rays are shorter and are the main cause of sunburn. Both types can contribute to skin cancer.
Even brief, unprotected exposure can cause cellular damage that builds up over time, increasing your risk of:
- Skin cancer: including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer.
- Premature aging: UV exposure leads to wrinkles, sagging, dark spots, and loss of skin elasticity.
- Eye problems: prolonged exposure can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, and even cancer of the eyelid.
- Weakened immunity: excessive UV radiation may impair the immune system’s ability to detect and fight some diseases, including skin cancer.
How to Stay Safe in the Sun
Sun protection isn’t just for summer—UV rays can harm you year-round, even on cloudy or cool days. Here are simple steps you can take to stay safe:
- Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it generously 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours—or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots like ears, neck, hands, feet, and the top of your head if you have thinning hair.
- Dress for Protection
Opt for tightly woven clothing, long sleeves, and long pants when spending extended time outdoors. Look for garments with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) label for added protection.
Wide-brimmed hats and wraparound sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays are also essential.
- Limit Time in Direct Sunlight
UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to seek shade during these peak hours. If you’re on the beach or in open spaces, use umbrellas, pop-up tents, or trees for natural cover.
- Be Extra Cautious Around Water, Snow, and Sand
These surfaces reflect UV rays and increase your risk of burning. Take extra precautions when enjoying outdoor activities in these environments.
- Protect Children Early and Often
Children’s skin is especially vulnerable to sun damage. Use protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen on children older than 6 months. Keep infants under 6 months out of direct sunlight entirely.
Common Sun Safety Myths—Debunked
Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions that could be putting your skin at risk:
- Myth: You don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days.
Truth: Up to 80% of UV rays pass through clouds. - Myth: People with darker skin tones don’t need sun protection.
Truth: While melanin offers some protection, everyone is at risk for skin cancer. - Myth: A base tan protects you from sunburn.
Truth: A tan is a sign of skin damage. It offers minimal protection and increases long-term risks. - Myth: You can’t get sunburned in the car or by a window.
Truth: UVA rays can penetrate glass, so protection is still important.
Skin Checks Save Lives
Early detection is key. Regularly check your skin from head to toe for:
- New or changing moles
- Spots that bleed, itch, or don’t heal
- Asymmetry or irregular borders
If you notice anything unusual, don’t wait. Schedule a visit with your SoNE HEALTH provider or a board-certified dermatologist for a full skin evaluati
A Partner in Lifelong Health
At SoNE HEALTH Medical Group, we don’t just treat illness—we work alongside you to support long-term health and wellness. Sun safety is just one way we help protect your future.
Whether it’s a wellness visit, a dermatology referral, or a conversation about prevention, our care teams are here to help. Let us be your partner in protecting your health—from the inside out.
Stay active. Enjoy the outdoors. But do it safely.
🌞 Your skin will thank you. Your future self will too.