Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 2, 2018

Let’s face it: The sun doesn’t discriminate. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause sunburns, lead to future wrinkles and raise the risk for skin cancer, no matter a person’s age. “Water and sand reflect the sun, increasing the intensity of sun exposure and chances of sunburn,” said Alicia Ogram, M.D., Kootenai Clinic Dermatology. “Using a beach umbrella; UPF- rated (UV protection factor-rated) sun protection clothing; or dark, tightly woven fabrics will help protect your skin. Also, do not be fooled by cloudy days! Clouds allow 70 to 80 percent UV penetration.” So have a sun-safety plan for the whole family. Start with these three steps from the American Academy of Dermatology and other experts. We’ve got you covered To learn more about summer skin care, or to meet with a dermatologist, visit KH.org/dermatology or call (208) 625-4260 . Shun the sun. Try to stay out of it during the most intense hours of sunlight, about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you do go outside, cover up with long sleeves and pants and a wide- brimmed hat. Aim to stay in the shade, and encourage the kids to play in the shade as well. Keep eyes under wraps. Use plenty of sunscreen. UV light can damage eyes and increase the chance of cataracts developing later in life. The corneas can also get a sort of sunburn—a temporary but painful condition. Make sure everyone in the family has a pair of sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UV light. That includes even the youngest members of the family, whose sunglasses should be the real deal—not toy sunglasses. SUN Sense Protect the entire family Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Also be sure it has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Apply it to exposed skin about 15 minutes before you head outside, and reapply it every two hours. Check with your child’s doctor before putting sunscreen on a baby under 6 months old. Alicia Ogram, M.D. 16

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