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Sun protection saves
skin in summer heat
By Becky Powell
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As temperatures soar in Central Illinois and kids flock to the local swimming pools for some heat relief, we all need to be reminded about the importance of protecting our skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Each year, more than 1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States and more than 90 percent of these are caused by exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun.

Ultraviolet light consists of two types of harmful rays, UVB and UVA. UVB rays are associated with sunburns and skin cancer. These rays may be blocked by window glass and many of them are absorbed by the ozone before ever reaching the earth’s surface.

UVA rays are not blocked by the ozone or window glass and penetrate deeper into the skin, contributing to premature aging, sunburns and skin cancer. Scientists think that ultraviolet light causes skin cancer by directly damaging cellular DNA leading to mutations or by suppression of the immune system which protects our body against the development and spread of skin cancer.

The three major types of skin cancer linked to sun exposure are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Here are sun safety tips to protect you and your family:

  • Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when rays are the strongest.


  • Check the UV Index. The UV Index is a forecast of the amount of ultraviolet light expected to reach the Earth’s surface when the sun is highest in the sky. The index predicts UV levels on a 0 to 10 scale. The higher the index, the faster the UV radiation causes damage to the skin and eyes. This information can be found online with the Weather Channel at www.weather.com.


  • Use a broad spectrum sunscreen product that provides both UVA and UVB protection. Sunscreen should have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or greater. SPF is a measurement of how effective a product is at blocking out the UVB rays of the sun. To get the necessary UVA protection, sunscreen products must contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone, or Mexoryl SX, which is a new FDA-approved sun filter.


    • Apply at least one ounce of sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours or after swimming.

  • Apply lip balm that contains sunscreen and re-apply frequently.


  • Wear protective clothing, such as wide brim hats, sunglasses, tightly woven long-sleeved shirts, and pants.

    People who work out in the sun may want to purchase clothing and accessories made of fabrics with a high ultraviolet protection factor. Websites with clothing to evaluate include www.mountianhardwear.com., www.glacier

    glove.com, or www.grangersusa.com.


  • Perform a monthly skin self exam.


  • Avoid tanning beds.


    • Teaching children sun safety habits is critical. In a study in the May 2007 edition of the Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention journal, researchers found data linking sunlight exposure up to age 20 to a specific mutation in melanomas. This new evidence further strengthens the message to parents to protect children from sun exposure in order to help prevent melanoma.

    So, as you pack your bags for the pool or for any event under the sun this summer, remember these sun safety tips.

    Becky Powell is a registered nurse and the health educator at the Community Cancer Center.

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    Reader comments on this story - 1 total

    Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

    Chemist wrote on Aug 3, 2007 9:23 AM:

    " The misleadingly named "sunscreens" do not "screen" (i.e., block) sun rays. They work by way of a chemical reaction that, itself, creates free radicals that damage your DNA. In fact, the EU bans almost all of the sunscreens sold in the US because of this hazard. Cover up or avoid the sun, if possible. If not, slowly build up a tan (don't burn!) by way of gradual exposure. But don't rely on sunscreens, and DON'T put them on babies! "
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