• Especially between 11 am and 4 pm, when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest.

2. Shade your Skin 

• Seek shade under trees, or create your own shade with a hat, shirt, or umbrella. 
• Wear clothing to cover your arms and legs. Make sure the fabric has a tight weave. Fabric that is wet or has a loose weave will allow more light to penetrate through to the skin.
• Wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection. 

3. Beware of clouds

• Up to 80% of the sun’s rays can penetrate light clouds, mist and fog. You can still get a sunburn on a cloudy day.

4. Remember about Reflection

• Water, sand, snow and concrete can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s damaging rays. 

5. Slop on the Sunscreen

• Use sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or more that contain both UVA and UVB protection. 
• Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 2 hours (more often when working, playing, or swimming).

6. Avoid tanning salons and sunlamps

• These lights emit mostly UVA radiation – up to 2 – 5 times as much as natural sunlight. UVA radiation causes sunburn, premature aging of the skin and skin cancer.
• The UVB radiation from tanning lights is the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer and also contributes to premature skin aging.

7. Protect Children 

• The most harmful effects of sun exposure occur during early childhood. Keep babies under 1 year out of direct sunlight. Once infants turn 6 months of age, begin using a sunscreen for added protection. 

8. Spot Check Your Moles

Examine your moles and freckles every month to check for any changes. See your health care provider immediately if you notice:

• any new growth
• a mole or discolouration that appears suddenly or begins to change
• a sore that does not heal