It’s that time of year again…Memorial Day Weekend summer kickoff? Yes! My post about wearing sunscreen? Yes! I know you have heard this before, but it always bears repeating. 

Here are the key points that EVERYONE needs to know about the sun and your skin. 

1. NO tan is “safe”. Any time you are exposed to ultraviolet rays, it damages your skin.
2. NO matter your complexion you can still get skin cancer. Whether you are Irish or Italian you still need sunscreen — all year round.
3. NO sunscreens below 30 SPF are strong enough to keep you safe — that number will block 97% of UVA and UVB rays. 
4. NO “once a day” applications — ideally you will reapply every 2-3 hours and use 1 oz of sunblock each time (picture a shot glass) and not just a drop on your fingertip. 

Self tanners have come a LONG way over the years, and will allow you to have that “summer glow” while sitting under the umbrella reading. Sun protective running and tennis clothes, rash guards, and wide brim hats with SPF are everywhere these days. Everyone has gotten the memo that sitting in the sun is not good for your skin, or even safe. Summer is too much fun to be sidelined by a sunburn, so let’s all remember these tips.