Are you the type of person who can spend hours fishing in the sun without ever catching a burn? Or are you the one who is huddled under the shade of a beach umbrella, contemplating the sun angle, and sweating through your long-sleeved shirt? We all have different tolerances to the sun but even individuals who tan easily can still be at risk for skin cancer and early skin aging. Tanning is the result of the skin reacting to potentially damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation by producing additional pigmentation. This provides some, but not complete protection against the sun’s harmful effects. Sunburn is a sure sign of too much exposure to UV light.
Did you know?
- Sunlight that reflects off sand, water, and snow further increases our exposure to UV radiation.
- There are no sunscreens that are truly sweatproof or waterproof.
- Sunscreen is not recommended for babies 6 months old or younger. Keep them out of direct sunlight.
- 80% of the sun’s UV rays can get through the clouds on an overcast day.
Danielle is a certified climate change professional with Delaware Sea Grant (www.deseagrant.org). Delaware Sea Grant utilizes research, education, and extension work in support of resilient communities, economies, and coastal resources. Danielle provides technical assistance and outreach to communities on emergency preparedness and building resilience to weather and climate hazards. She is co-founder of the Resilient and Sustainable Communities League (RASCL – www.derascl.org) and loves hiking the Gordons Pond Trail in Cape Henlopen State Park.
