Updated July 2026
July is UV Safety Month, a great time to take a closer look at how well you and your family are protecting yourselves from the sun. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are one of the most consistently underestimated health hazards of summer and the consequences of repeated overexposure go well beyond a short-term sunburn.
According to the CDC, an estimated 6.1 million people are treated for skin cancer each year in the United States, with annual medical costs reaching $8.9 billion. About 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to UV radiation from the sun. The encouraging news is that much of this damage is preventable.
At Southwoods Health, we believe that small, consistent habits can make a big difference. Here’s what every family should know to stay protected all summer long.
What is UV Radiation & Why Does it Matter?
UV radiation is energy emitted by the sun in wavelengths that are invisible to the human eye. Two types of UV rays reach the earth’s surface:
- UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging, wrinkles and long-term skin damage.
- UVB rays primarily affect the outer layers of the skin, causing sunburn and playing a major role in the development of skin cancer.
One of the easiest ways to gauge your daily risk is by checking the UV Index, which measures UV intensity on a scale from 1 to 11+. As UV levels increase, so does your risk of sunburn. At a UV Index of 9, unprotected skin can burn in as little as 30 minutes. At 11 or higher, sunburn may occur in just 10 to 15 minutes.
During the summer months in Northeast Ohio and across the Mahoning Valley, UV levels frequently reach the high or very high range, making daily sun protection especially important for families spending time outdoors.
Sun Safety Tips for the Whole Family
Get the Most Out of Your Sunscreen
Sunscreen is your first and most reliable line of defense, but only when used correctly. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it generously to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before heading outside, including easily missed areas like the ears, back of the neck, tops of the feet and the scalp along part lines.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and immediately after swimming or excessive sweating, even if the label says it’s water resistant. Also be sure to check the expiration date, as sunscreen becomes less effective over time.
Sunscreen quick-reference guide:
| Factor | Recommendation |
| Minimum SPF | Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher |
| Initial Application | 15 minutes before sun exposure |
| Reapplication | Every 2 hours |
| After Swimming or Sweating | Immediately reapply |
| Expiration | Check label, do not use expired product |
Seek Shade During Peak UV Hours
UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Whenever possible, schedule outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. It’s important to remember that clouds don’t eliminate UV exposure. UV rays can penetrate cloud cover, haze and fog, meaning your skin can still burn on overcast days.
When midday sun is unavoidable, set up an umbrella, canopy or find a shaded area. While shade significantly reduces your direct UV exposure, it does not eliminate it entirely, especially near reflective surfaces.
Protect Your Eyes
Eye protection is an often-overlooked piece of sun safety. Your eyes need protection too. Prolonged UV exposure to the eyes can contribute to cataracts, macular degeneration and other vision conditions that develop gradually over years of cumulative damage.
Invest in a pair of sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wrap-around styles offer the broadest protection by preventing rays from entering at the sides. Standard fashion sunglasses may not provide adequate protection, so always check the label before purchasing. Wide-brimmed hats worn in combination with sunglasses offer an additional layer of defense.
Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
Clothing is one of the simplest and most consistent ways to limit UV exposure. When spending extended time outdoors, opt for long sleeves, long pants and wide-brimmed hats that cover commonly burned areas. Look for clothing labeled with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. UPF-rated fabrics are specifically tested and rated for how effectively they block UV radiation, similar to the SPF rating system for sunscreen.
Light-colored, tightly woven fabrics tend to offer better protection than loose knits or sheer materials. This matters particularly for children, who may be outside for extended periods without remembering to reapply sunscreen.
Be Mindful of Reflective Surfaces
Sun exposure isn’t limited to direct sunlight. Water, sand, concrete and even snow reflect UV rays, increasing your overall exposure. Reflection from snow can nearly double UV intensity, while time spent around pools, beaches or large paved areas can expose your skin to UV rays from multiple directions.
Always apply sunscreen before arriving—not after you’ve already been sitting in them.
Know the Warning Signs of Overexposure
Even with precautions in place, overexposure can happen. Recognize the warning signs early so you can respond quickly.
Signs of Sunburn
- Redness, warmth or tenderness
- Swelling or skin that feels tight
- Blistering in more severe cases
Signs of Heat-Related Illness (Seek Medical Care)
- Dizziness or confusion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Hot, dry skin with little or no sweating
Most mild sunburns can be managed at home with cool compresses, moisturizer and hydration. However, severe sunburns with blistering, signs of infection or symptoms of heat exhaustion or sun poisoning require prompt medical evaluation.
Why Sun Protection Is Especially Important for Kids & Teens
Building sun-protective habits in children, from sunscreen application to wearing hats, sunglasses and seeking shade, is one of the most impactful long-term health investments a family can make. Research shows that five or more blistering sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 increases the risk of melanoma by 80% and non-melanoma skin cancer by 68% later in life.
Apply sunscreen to babies and young children before they go outdoors, keep infants in shade whenever possible and model consistent sun-safe behavior so older kids understand it as a normal part of daily routine.
Perform Regular Skin Checks
Sun safety doesn’t end when summer is over. Year-round skin checks are an important habit for the whole family. Monthly self-exams help you identify new spots, moles or growths, and track any changes to existing ones. Use the ABCDE method when evaluating anything you notice:
| Letter | What Physical Characteristic to Look For |
| A | Asymmetry: one half does not match the other |
| B | Border: irregular, ragged or blurred edges |
| C | Color: uneven coloring, multiple shades |
| D | Diameter: larger than a pencil eraser (6mm) |
| E | Evolving: changing in size, shape or color over time |
If you notice a spot that meets any of these criteria—or simply looks different from your other moles—schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. Early detection is one of the most important factors in the successful treatment of skin cancer.
Enjoy Summer Safely
UV Safety Month is a reminder that sun protection is not just a “beach day” consideration. It applies to every outdoor activity, from backyard gatherings and youth sports to morning walks and weekend errands. By building these habits into your family’s daily routine throughout the summer, you can enjoy the season with confidence.
If you have questions about skin health, summer wellness or finding the right primary care provider for your family, Southwoods Health is here to help. Our providers across the Mahoning Valley are committed to supporting your health all year long.