05 Aug Sunburns

Sunburns are becoming more common among U.S. adults. Sunburns aren’t just uncomfortable – they also can be dangerous. Getting sunburned even once can make you more likely to get skin cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

With the summer season in session, it’s time to brush up on sun protection. The CDC offers these sunburn prevention tips:

• Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
• Limit your time in the midday sun (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Use the shadow rule: No shadow, seek shade! Kids are at increased risk, so encourage playtime in the shade.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and loose-fitting, tightly woven clothing.
• Wear sunglasses that provide UVA and UVB protection to protect your eyes.
• Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, and apply liberally 15 to 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating, even if you use waterproof sunscreen.

Learn more tips to protect your skin and take the American Cancer Society’s sun-safety IQ quiz at www.cancer.org.