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July 2026

UV Safety Awareness Month

Summer brings longer days, outdoor adventures and plenty of sunshine. While spending time outside offers many benefits, July's designation as UV Safety Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can have serious consequences for your health.

Excessive UV exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, which is the most common cancer in the United States. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year in the U.S. and one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. The good news is that skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer, making sun safety a simple yet powerful way to protect your health.

Beyond increasing the risk of skin cancer, prolonged UV exposure can lead to painful sunburns, premature skin aging, eye damage and suppression of the immune system. Fortunately, a few proactive steps can significantly reduce these risks.

Make sunscreen part of your daily routine. Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it about 15 minutes before heading outdoors. Be sure to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or excessive sweating.
Timing your outdoor activities can also make a difference. UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so whenever possible, seek shaded areas during these peak hours.
If you plan to be outside for extended periods, wear protective clothing such as lightweight long sleeves, pants and wide-brimmed hats.
Don't forget about your eyes. Wearing sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays can help safeguard your vision while you enjoy the outdoors.
Check the daily UV Index before spending time outside. Many weather apps and public health resources provide UV forecasts that can help you plan activities and take appropriate precautions when UV levels are high.

Prevention is only one part of maintaining healthy skin. Early detection plays a critical role in successful treatment outcomes. Perform regular self-examinations of your skin, watching for any new moles, spots or changes in existing marks. Pay special attention to lesions that change in size, shape, color or begin to itch or bleed. Scheduling routine skin examinations with a dermatologist is also recommended, particularly for individuals with a family history of skin cancer, fair skin or significant sun exposure.

This UV Safety Awareness Month, take a few moments to evaluate your sun protection habits. Small, consistent actions can help protect your skin, preserve your health and enable you to continue enjoying the sunshine safely for years to come.