How to Protect Your Skin in the Summer

After a long winter, there is nothing better than basking in the warm bright sun when spring and summer commence. Whether you are heading to the beach for spring break or enjoying more time outside for walks or bike rides as the snow melts, it is time to think about sun protection.

A lot of my patients understand the importance of sunscreen, but do not like the feel, smell or possible allergy to common lotion or spray sunscreens. Reapplication of sunscreen also lacks consistency. Luckily, there are other options to protect our skin!

Sun protective clothing, hats and accessories have become a popular alternative to sunscreen. Sun protective clothing is rated based on UPF (ultraviolet protective factor). This is like SPF by determining how well the clothing absorbs or reflects UVB and UVA radiation. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, a fabric must have a UPF of 30 to qualify for their seal of recommendation. A UPF of 30 to 49 offers very good protection, while UPF 50+ rates excellent. Ultimately, a combination of sun protective clothing and sunscreen on non-covered areas is optimal.

Clarus Dermatology has a variety of Coolibar hats at our New Brighton location. There are several different brands of UPF clothing including Coolibar, Solbari, Patagonia and many more. Consider adding these pieces to your wardrobe to help prevent skin cancer!

Erin Layne, PA-C

Reference:
The Skin Cancer Foundation: sun-protective clothing. [ Jul; 2022 ];2019 2019. https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sun-protective-clothing/