Reduce sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. from April to September.
Seek or create your own shade.
Slip! on clothing to cover your arms and legs, and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Slap! on a wide-brimmed hat. Slop! on sunscreen with sun protection factor/SPF 15 or higher.
Keep babies out of direct sunlight.
Avoid using artificial tanning equipment (such as tanning beds and sun lamps).
Check your skin regularly.
ULTRAVIOLET RAYS
The sun’s ultraviolet/UV rays, known as UVA and UVB, both penetrate into the skin and cause damage to skin cells. Too much exposure to UV radiation results in a tan or sunburn, wrinkling or aging of the skin, eye cataracts and skin cancer.
UV INDEX
The UV Index is a measure of the strength of the sun’s UV rays. The UV Index values range from 0 to 11+. The higher the UV Index number, the stronger the sun’s rays and the greater the need to take precautions. It’s included in the local weather forecast whenever it is forecast to reach 3 (moderate) or more that day.
For the UV Index refer to Environment Canada.
SUNSCREENS
Use sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher, with both UVA and UVB protection. Apply generously before going outside, and reapply often, especially after swimming or exercise.
For recognized list of sunscreens, sunscreen questions and answers, tips for parents, tips for daycares, skin cancer fact sheets and sun protection information refer to Canadian Dermatology Association.
