Prevent It!

1. Reduce Sun Exposure
Especially between 11 am and 4 pm, when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest.

2. Shade your Skin
Seek shade under trees, or create your own shade with a hat, shirt, or umbrella.
Wear clothing to cover your arms and legs. Make sure the fabric has a tight weave. Fabric that is wet or has a loose weave will allow more light to penetrate through to the skin. Wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.

3. Beware of clouds
Up to 80% of the sun’s rays can penetrate light clouds, mist and fog. You can still get a sunburn on a cloudy day.

4. Remember about Reflection
Water, sand, snow and concrete can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s damaging rays.

5. Slop on the Sunscreen
Use sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or more that contain both UVA and UVB protection. Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 2 hours (more often when working, playing, or swimming).

6. Avoid tanning salons and sunlamps
These lights emit mostly UVA radiation – up to 2 – 5 times as much as natural sunlight. UVA radiation causes sunburn, premature aging of the skin and skin cancer. The UVB radiation from tanning lights is the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer and also contributes to premature skin aging.

7. Protect Children
The most harmful effects of sun exposure occur during early childhood. Keep babies under 1 year out of direct sunlight. Once infants turn 6 months of age, begin using a sunscreen for added protection.

8. Spot Check Your Moles
Examine your moles and freckles every month to check for any changes. See your health care provider immediately if you notice: any new growth, a mole or discolouration that appears suddenly or begins to change
a sore that does not heal