Summer skin safety: evidence-based tips to protect your skin

1. Sunscreen: your first and most important line of defense

Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher remains essential every day and in every season, even on cloudy days or when sitting by a window. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that consistent sunscreen use reduces melanoma risk by up to 50%.

Here are a few new ways to protect your skin:

• Sunscreen-serum hybrids now offer lightweight, non-greasy coverage ideal for daily use.
• Products with blue light (HEV) protection guard against digital devices.
• Dry-finish spray SPFs provide even coverage without mess.

Not sure what kind of sunscreen to use? Follow these guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

The best sunscreen is the one you will use consistently. Look for a broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) formula with SPF 30 or higher that is water resistant. Sunscreen types vary by preference and body area.

• Creams: ideal for dry skin and the face
• Gels: suited for oily skin or hairy areas like the scalp or chest
• Sticks: best for the delicate skin around the eyes
• Sprays: convenient but require careful use—spray until the skin glistens, then rub in for full coverage. Avoid spraying near the face or open flames

Tinted sunscreens can protect against visible light and reduce discoloration in darker skin tones while avoiding a white residue. Moisturizers and cosmetics with SPF offer additional protection but require reapplication every two hours when outdoors.

Heading to the beach or the pool? Know that no sunscreen is truly "waterproof" or "sweatproof". Even water-resistant formulas must be reapplied after swimming or sweating. 
 

2. Shade is not enough. Smart tech and full-body protection make the difference

While staying in the shade reduces direct UV exposure, indirect rays reflected off sand, water, concrete and other surfaces can still damage the skin. That’s why shade should be just one layer of your sun protection strategy, not your only defense.

New technology makes sun safety easier than ever.

• UV detection wearables, such as wristbands or stickers, monitor cumulative sun exposure and alert you when it’s time to reapply sunscreen or seek additional protection.
• SPF-rated pop-up tents and umbrellas now offer certified UV-blocking fabric, adding extra defense during beach outings, sports events or park days.

For complete protection, layer these tools with physical barriers:

• Clothing: Opt for long sleeves, pants or tightly woven fabrics to block UV rays. Dry, dark-colored clothing offers better protection than light or wet materials. Look for garments with a certified Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating of 30 or higher.
• Hat: Choose a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, ears and neck. Materials like tightly woven canvas block more UV than loosely woven fabrics like straw. If you wear a baseball cap, remember to apply sunscreen to the exposed neck and ears or cover them with clothing.
• Sunglasses: Select wrap-around sunglasses labeled to block both UVA and UVB rays. This not only protects the eyes but also the delicate skin surrounding them. It can also reduce the risk of cataracts later in life.
   

3. Time your sun exposure wisely

UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so limiting outdoor activities during these hours remains critical for reducing sunburn and long-term damage. When in doubt, download the UV index app. 

4. Hydrate and repair

Keeping skin hydrated improves its natural defenses internally and externally. After sun exposure, use moisturizers containing niacinamide or vitamin C to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Also, apply aloe vera or ceramide-enriched after-sun products for barrier repair and relief from minor burns.
 

5. Don’t forget these missed areas

Ears, scalp, lips, neck, hands and feet are often neglected but are just as vulnerable. 

• Use SPF 30+ lip balm
• Apply sunscreen to the scalp or wear a hat
• Spray sunscreens help cover hard-to-reach areas effectively
   

6. Children require extra caution

Children’s sensitive skin burns faster and more severely. Babies under 6 months should never be directly exposed to sunlight.
For toddlers and older children:

• Select mineral-based sunscreens (zinc or titanium)
• Utilize UPF-rated clothing and stroller shades
• Normalize daily sun protection as part of their routine
   

Prevention is the best protection 

As we mark UV Safety Awareness Month in July, remember consistent, evidence-based prevention strategies can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. Daily sunscreen use, protective clothing, shade and regular self-exams make a lasting impact.
If you notice any unusual skin changes, reach out and schedule an evaluation with SIU Medicine’s dermatology experts.