While sunlight is great and can be healthy for us, it does pose some dangers to us. In particular, the sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation which, while not deadly like gamma radiation that you think of when you normally hear of radiation, can still be an issue. While most of it is absorbed by the Earth’s ozone layer, very small dosages can still make it through to the Earth’s surface.
The sun may be the only natural source of UV radiation, it’s not the only source. Artificial sources such as tanning beds and certain types of lights are also present. Thankfully, damage by UV radiation is often very minimal and it’s difficult to become overexposed. You can reduce or avoid the radiation by staying in the shade, wearing sunglasses or longer clothing and sunblock of SPF +15.
Being Active Outdoors
After months of cold weather, there’s nothing like getting outside in the warm weather. Whether you’re doing a little gardening or training for the next marathon, it’s important to keep yourself safe in the heat. This helpful guide offers tips for being active as the temperature rises, when it gets very hot, and when the humidity goes up. You’ll also learn how to stay active indoors when it’s too hot outside to exercise safely. And the guide describes symptoms of heatstroke, a dangerous condition that often requires immediate medical attention.
Click here to check out our guide on quick tips to stay safe while being active outdoors.
Protecting your skin
The sun feels great and boosts your mood, but too much sun can put your skin at risk. Protecting your skin from the sun decreases your chances of getting skin cancer, and it also can help prevent wrinkles. Did you know that staying out of the sun during certain times of the day will help decrease your sun exposure, or that specific sunglasses will help prevent eye damage? Find out how to protect yourself and your children from too much sun exposure and how to choose and apply sunscreen.
Keep your skin safe, healthy, and glowing all year with these tips for sun safety, here.
Heat-Related Illnesses
If it gets too hot or you overdo the heat, you could experience some serious heat-related problems. Heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion happen when your body can’t stay cool enough in hot temperatures. Keeping the body cool and drinking lots of water in hot environments can protect you from most heat-related illnesses. If you begin to feel tired, dizzy, or nauseated, or if you develop a headache, get out of the heat immediately. Seek shelter indoors or in the shade and get plenty of water to cool yourself off before returning to the outdoors.
For more information about who is at risk and what to do if you’re experiencing symptoms, check out this helpful resource.
Shedding light on skin cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. While this may make it seem like it’s almost inevitable, you can reduce your risk of skin cancer. Most skin cancers can be found and removed early are almost always curable.
Seek the shade, cover up with clothing, and use sunscreen to protect your skin from UV radiation. Find out the basics of early detection and check yourself regularly for new changes in your skin.
Here’s a way to take action against skin cancer and secure the safety of your skin.