Health Tips for May 2

Health Tip: Overexposed to the Sun

Too much exposure to the sun and its ultraviolet rays can lead to skin cancer, eye damage and other health problems.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says UV rays can:

• Lead to different types of skin cancer, including the most serious, melanoma.
• Cause what looks like early aging and other changes in the skin's appearance.
• Damage the eyes, including causing cataracts.
• Suppress the immune system, resulting in reduced ability to fight off illness.

Health Tip: Apply Sunscreen Properly


Sunscreen helps protect your skin from sunburn and damage, but it must be applied properly.

The Skin Cancer Foundation offers these guidelines:

• Choose a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15.
• Apply sunscreen to children's skin, as long as they are at least 6 months old. Children younger than 6 months should not be exposed to the sun.
• Make sure you choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays,
• Use about 1 ounce of sunscreen for good coverage.
• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours.
• Reapply sunscreen after swimming, sweating or towel drying.
• Be aware of how much time you spend in the sun. Your skin doesn't have to turn red to be damaged by the sun's rays.