Mid-Month Health Tip: Sun Safety

June through August brings sunshine, pool days, outdoor festivals and time spent at parks, ballfields and backyard gatherings. It also brings a higher risk of sunburn and skin damage, especially during long stretches outdoors. Protecting your skin is an important part of staying healthy during the summer months and can help reduce the risk of long-term problems such as premature aging and skin cancer.

Dermatologists and health providers commonly recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays, which can damage the skin in different ways. Sunscreen should be applied before going outside and reapplied at least every two hours, especially after swimming, sweating or toweling off.

Sun protection is not just for beach days or vacations. People can get sunburned while mowing the lawn, walking the dog, watching a parade, sitting at a baseball game or spending time at a local festival. Even on cloudy days, ultraviolet rays can still reach the skin, which means sunscreen and other protective steps are still important.

Clothing can also play a major role in sun safety. Lightweight long sleeves, sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats can help protect areas that are often exposed, including the face, ears, neck, shoulders and arms. Seeking shade when possible can also reduce direct sun exposure, particularly during the middle of the day when the sun’s rays are strongest.

Springfield-area providers, including Springfield Clinic and HSHS Medical Group, offer dermatology services and guidance for patients who have questions about sun protection, skin changes or possible warning signs. Annual skin checks can be especially important for people with a history of sunburns, tanning bed use, fair skin, many moles or a family history of skin cancer.

Residents should also pay attention to changes in their skin throughout the year. A mole or spot that changes in size, shape or color, bleeds, itches or does not heal should be checked by a medical professional. Finding skin cancer early can make treatment more effective.

Families can still enjoy summer activities while taking simple precautions. Parks such as Southwind Park and Carpenter Park offer opportunities for walking, biking and outdoor recreation, and shaded areas or tree-lined trails can make outings more comfortable during hot, sunny days. Planning outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can also help limit time in the strongest sun.

Parents should be especially mindful of sun protection for children. Sunscreen, hats, shade breaks and plenty of water can help make pool days, sports practices and playground visits safer. Building those habits early can also help children understand that sun safety is a normal part of being outside.

Summer in Sangamon County offers plenty of reasons to get outdoors, from parks and trails to pools, fairs and neighborhood events. Enjoying those activities does not mean ignoring the risks of sun exposure. With sunscreen, protective clothing, shade and regular skin checks, residents can make sun safety a regular part of their summer routine.