With summer in full swing, people are spending plenty of time outside enjoying the weather. It’s essential to take care of your skin during these months, as sun exposure can lead to blistering and various forms of skin cancer. The health care staff at Hillside Family Medicine LLC & Occupational Medicine in Anchorage advise that even residents of Alaska are at risk; and, they want to share a few tips on how to stay safe to ensure you enjoy the outdoors without endangering your skin.

3 Tips to Keep Your Skin Safe This Summer

1. Wear Sunscreen

Sunscreen is the tried-and-true way to protect your skin, and you should be wearing it any time you go outdoors. It’s best to choose at least SPF 30, though you may want to go higher if you have fair skin. Use sunscreen even on cloudy or cool days as damage from the sun’s rays can still occur. Reapply every two hours to protect your skin from the sun and strong reflections off the water.

Don’t forget that some medications can increase sensitivity to the sun. Common drugs include antihistamines, such as Benadryl; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like aspirin or ibuprofen; certain antibiotics, including Bactrim or Tetracycline; antidepressants; antipsychotics; and some oral diabetic medications. Check with your pharmacist regarding your medication side effects.

2. Avoid Peak Hours

Alaska experiences more sun than other places, especially as the summer reaches its peak. The further north you go, the more sun you’ll see; some areas see 24-hour sunlight. Peak hours are generally when the sun is rising, peaking, and dropping off. As a gauge, that’s roughly 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the south.

3. Wear Sunglasses

Sunglasses protect your eyes and the skin around them. Regular squinting can lead to age lines, and damage to the skin around your eyes can lead to skin cancer. Choose sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection, and make sure the frames are large enough to cover your entire eye.

If you’re interested in more health care advice, turn to the staff at Hillside Family Medicine LLC & Occupational Medicine. They offer both men’s health and women’s health care services and are committed to ensuring their patients maintain healthy, fulfilling lives free of medical complications. Call (907) 344-0200 today to schedule an appointment and visit their website and Facebook page to learn more.