Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Soaking up the sun’s rays to get a tan was once thought healthy, before we knew about the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) rays. Now it is known that those sunny rays are a major cause of skin cancer and other skin damage. Too much sun can cause wrinkles, freckles, cataracts, skin texture changes and dilated blood vessels. There will be about a million new cases of skin cancer this year, including 42,000 cases of melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer. One in six people with melanoma will die.

A tan is the result of skin injury from the sun. Too much sun exposure causes skin tenderness, pain, swelling and blistering. Other signs like fever, chills, upset stomach and confusion can indicate serious sunburn and may need immediate medical attention.

To stay safe in the sun:

• Limit time in the sun, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun’s rays are strongest.

• Use a sunscreen with a SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15. If fair skinned, burn easily, or spend long periods of time in the sun, use a SPF of 30 or greater.

• Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply often and after water exposure.

• Wear a wide brimmed hat to protect the nose and face, sunglasses with UV protection for the eyes and lip balm or lipstick with SPF for lips.

• Babies under 6 months should spend little time in the sun and wear protective clothing and a hat. Children over 6 months should wear a sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher.

• Use sunless-tanning products for that tanned look, instead of long exposure to the sun.