Damage from the sun is cumulative and leads to skin cancer. Skin cancer can occur in all color types including skin that tans. A tanned skin is damaged and not healthy.
Damaging ultraviolet rays are present on sunny days as well as hazy or cloudy days. Ultraviolet rays are present at the beach as well as in the back yard. Due to the thinning ozone layer, UV rays are more concentrated now than ever before. It is essential that protective clothing be worn. UV protective clothing is available in both children and adult styles. Hats help. UV protective umbrellas or sun shelters are essential at the beach and pool. Sunscreen must be worn for all outdoor activities. Use sunscreens with an SPF of at least 40 and make sure to reapply as directed and especially after being in water. Sunscreens may be applied to children of any age but we strongly urge to keep children less than 2 years of age out of the sun completely, especially when the sun rays are at their strongest between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.