The summer months — when UV rays are most intense — is a time to remember important skin safety tips. Overexposure to UV radiation can cause serious health issues, including skin cancer.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with 1 in 5 Americans developing it during their lifetime. Each day, an estimated 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Why UV Protection Matters
UV rays are strongest during June, July, and August, and even on overcast days, they can damage unprotected skin. UV rays reflect off surfaces like water, sand, cement, and even snow, intensifying exposure. Peak UV radiation typically occurs between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., making these hours the riskiest for sunburn and skin damage.
Remember: more than 75% of UV rays penetrate cloud cover, so protection is necessary even when it’s cloudy.
“A common mistake is thinking a single sunscreen application covers you all day,” said Dr. Vardan Papoian, General Surgeon and independent member of the Barstow Community Hospital Medical Staff. “For effective protection, reapply sunscreen every two hours—and immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.”
Sun-Smart Strategies
Be Strategic
Check daily UV levels. Plan outdoor activities when the UV index is below three. Sun protection times, available on most weather apps, show the UV forecast so you can plan outdoor activities accordingly.
Wear Protective Clothing and Gear
Cover up with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Apply (and Reapply) Sunscreen
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, all year long—even when it’s cloudy. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, using sunscreen daily with a minimum SPF of 15 can reduce your risk of squamous cell carcinoma by 40% and melanoma by 50%.
Seek Shade
Take breaks from direct sun under umbrellas, awnings, or natural shade—especially during midday hours.
Early Detection: Know Your Skin
Most skin cancers can be successfully treated when detected early. The American Cancer Society recommends monthly skin self-exams and annual professional skin checks. Remember the A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma when examining moles or spots:
- A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
- B – Border: Edges are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
- C – Color: Varied shades of brown, black, or patches of red, white, or blue.
- D – Diameter: Larger than a pea (about 6 millimeters).
- E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or symptoms (itching, bleeding).
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your provider if you notice:
- A new mole or growth
- A sore that doesn’t hea
- Changes to an existing mole
- Any of the A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma
Protecting your skin lets you enjoy summer while reducing your risk of skin cancer. Regular self-exams, annual skin checks, and consistent sun protection provide peace of mind and help keep your skin healthy for years to come.
Don’t be embarrassed about your moles, lumps, or bumps. Find a local general surgeon to discuss your options. Visit https://providers.barstowhospital.com/?Specialties=37.
Dr. Vardan Papoian is a General Surgeon and independent member of the Barstow Community Hospital Medical Staff.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/radiation-health/features/uv-radiation.html
https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety/10-myths-about-sun-protection
https://treatcancer.com/blog/how-the-sun-damages-skin/#:~:text=Exposure%20to%20ultraviolet%20(UV)%20radiation,do%20to%20minimize%20that%20risk