July is UV Safety Month, which is a timely reminder that protecting your skin from the sun is just as important as enjoying the sunshine itself. While we all love a warm, sunny day, it’s not just the temperature you should be checking before heading outside - it’s the UV index.
In fact, many young people these days are skipping the weather app’s “Feels Like” temp and heading straight to the UV rating. And for good reason. The UV index tells you how intense the sun’s rays are and how quickly you can get burned, even on a cooler or cloudy day.
Here’s why it matters:
- UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. That midday walk or park trip? It’s prime time for potential skin damage.
- Sunburns can happen in as little as 15 minutes when the UV index is high, especially in kids.
- Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., and excessive UV exposure is a leading cause.
Tips to Stay Safe in the Sun:
- Check the UV index daily and plan activities around lower-risk times when possible.
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours.
- Don’t forget sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and UPF-rated clothing for extra protection.
- Keep babies and young children especially covered as they’re more sensitive to UV damage.
At Christie Clinic, we believe sun safety is smart safety. And we love that the next generation is already leading the way treating UV awareness like a daily habit, not just a summer chore.
So this July, let’s follow their lead: look past the temp and start making sun-smart choices all year long.