UV Safety Awareness Month Highlights Sun Protection Rules

July marks UV Safety Awareness Month, a campaign aimed at reducing the risk of skin cancer, the most common cancer in the United States. Health experts stress that daily use of broad‑spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, applied 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapplied every two hours, is essential. They also recommend protecting exposed skin with clothing, wide‑brimmed hats, sunglasses and seeking shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Dr. Rachel Hill of Daniel Island Dermatology warned, "We're still seeing rates rise, largely because of cumulative sun exposure over the years," emphasizing the need for consistent habits.

The guidance extends to construction workers, who are urged to wear at least SPF 15 sunscreen, cover arms and legs, use hats and sunglasses, and review the UV index before each shift. NAHB provides a Heat Stress Safety Toolkit and resources on artificial UV sources. For children, extra caution is advised: infants under six months should stay in shade, use protective clothing, and receive only limited sunscreen on the face and hands. Myths such as the protective value of a "base tan" or the irrelevance of sunscreen on cloudy days are debunked, reinforcing that sun safety is a daily routine for everyone.