Let’s Be UV Safe: What to Know to Protect Your Skin
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July 03, 2025 | Tags:
The sun’s warmth can feel rejuvenating on your skin, especially after a long winter or if you live in frequently cloudy areas like in the Midwest.
But the invisible rays it gives off can be harmful if you’re exposed for too long without proper protection. Learning about UV radiation and how to protect yourself is key to staying safe while enjoying time outdoors.
What to know about UV radiation
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of radiation emitted by natural sources, like the sun, and artificial sources, like tanning booths. UV rays are classified into three primary types:
- Ultraviolet A (UVA)
- Ultraviolet B (UVB)
- Ultraviolet C (UVC)
Most UVA and some UVB rays from the sun can reach your skin – even on cloudy days – making it essential to protect your skin whenever you’re outdoors. UV rays can be more harmful to certain groups, like those who:
- Spend lots of time in the sun or are sunburned.
- Have light-colored skin, eyes and hair.
- Take some types of oral and topical medications.
- Have family members with skin cancer.
- Are over 50 years old.
Protect your skin from UV rays
One of the easiest ways to stay safe in the sun is by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, meaning it’s been tested and proven to protect your skin from UV radiation. Not all sunscreens are broad-spectrum, so it’s important to check the label.
You’ll also see “SPF”, or Sun Protection Factor, on the bottle. SPF tells how well a sunscreen protects your skin from sunburn and the higher the number, the stronger the protection. Consider these important tips when using sunscreen:
- Choose a broad spectrum with SPF 15 or higher.
- Apply at least 15 minutes before going outside so your skin can absorb it.
- Reapply every two hours, especially after sweating, swimming or drying off.
- Don’t forget commonly missed spots like your neck, lips, scalp, ears, hands and feet.
Protecting your skin from UV exposure
A tan might look like a healthy glow, but it’s actually a sign that your skin has been damaged. When UV rays reach the deepest layer of skin, they trigger melanin production – the pigment that colors your skin – as a protective response, resulting in skin darkening. Conditions like sunburn aren’t always immediately apparent and can cause harm to your skin and health, including:
- Red, tender and swollen skin
- Blistering
- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea
- Fatigue
“Staying safe in the sun will help reduce premature aging and decrease risks of skin cancer,” said Shawn, a Quality Improvement Nurse at Medical Mutual, noting that even one sunburn significantly increases your chances for melanoma - dangerous type of skin cancer - later in life.
Be aware of skin changes from UV exposure, like growths, spots or bumps, which can indicate skin cancer. Limit spending prolonged periods in the sun to avoid skin damage. Seek medical attention if you experience signs of overheating, like:
- Severe sunburns that cover more than 15% of your body.
- Dehydration.
- High fever (over 101).
- Extreme pain that lasts longer than 48 hours.
Over-the-counter medications, drinking lots of fluids and topical moisturizing creams can help alleviate painful symptoms. Wear clothing that covers your skin, sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats to also help prevent sunburn. For additional protection, find shade under umbrellas, trees or other forms of shelter to further reduce your sun exposure.
Staying UV safe starts with “U”
Protecting yourself from UV radiation helps keep your skin healthy and reduces your risk of damage. UV levels are at their strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so take extra precautions during those hours. Check your local UV index and take protective measures if it's three or higher.
If you notice any changes to your skin that cause concern, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider (PCP). If you need help finding a PCP, use the Find a Provider tool or call the Customer Care phone number listed on your member ID card.