Summer is here and many of us will be spending more days out in the sun. But we need to remember, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. To help protect yourself and your family, be mindful of the 4 Ss – shade, shirt, sunglasses and sunscreen.

Shade: Reduce your risk of skin damage and skin cancer by seeking shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter before you need relief from the sun.

Shirt: When possible, wear long-sleeved shirts made from tightly woven fabric to provide protection from UV rays. 

Sunglasses: Use sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays, reduce the risk of cataracts and also protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure.

Sunscreen: Put on broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 before you go outside on all parts of exposed skin. Reapply after two hours and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.

Now go outside and enjoy the sunshine with the 4 Ss in mind!