Joplin, Missouri — With Summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to head outdoors and enjoy the weather.
But how serious is it to protect yourself from the sun?
Kevin Teel, Nurse Practitioner, U.S. Dermatology Partners Joplin, said, “Everybody is at risk for skin cancer, especially if they get burned or they’re not being protected.” It’s Summer time and that means flip flops, cold treats, and enjoying the water. But it’s also important to keep sun safety in mind as you head out. July is ultraviolet safety month, that includes UV-A and UV-B. “The A is going to give us the wrinkles, the brown spots, and the things like that. And then UV-B is one that’s going to burn us, that’s the one that we’re trying to watch.”
It doesn’t take long for your skin to burn.
“No it’s doesn’t take long 10 minutes.”
Sun rays are the strongest from 10 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon.
“If your shadow is shorter than yourself, then find the shade.”
Teel says using sunscreen with an SPF of 15, 30, or higher is very important.
