Education: Sun Avoidance Precautions

• Avoid the sun between 10am and 3pm.
• Whenever possible, stay in the shade.
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
• Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours. You should apply it more frequently if you have been swimming or sweating.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and if possible, tightly woven, full-length clothing.
• Wear UV-protective sunglasses.
• Wear lip balm with sunblock with an SPF 15 or higher.
• DO NOT use sunlamps or tanning salons.
• Monitor the UV Index daily.
• Be aware that the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can reflect off water, sand, concrete and snow, and can reach below the water's surface. Certain types of UV light penetrate fog and clouds, so it is possible to get sunburns even on overcast days.
• If you are taking an antibiotic or other medications, ask your health care professional if it may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun.

 

Adapted from a patient handout by the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine.