United States Air and Radiation EPA 430-F-10-028 

Environmental Protection 6205J June 2010 

Agency www.epa.gov/sunwise

Action Steps for 

Sun Protection 

While some exposure to sunlight can be enjoyable, too much can be dangerous. 

Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can result in a painful 

sunburn. It can also lead to more serious health problems, including skin cancer, 

premature aging of the skin, cataracts and other eye damage, and immune system 

suppression. Children are particularly at risk. This fact sheet explains simple steps 

to protect yourself and your children from overexposure to UV radiation. 

Be SunWise 

Most people are not aware that skin cancer, while largely preventable, is the most 

common form of cancer in the United States. More than one million cases are 

reported annually. By following some simple steps, you can still enjoy your time in 

the sun and protect yourself from overexposure. The U.S. Environmental 

Protection Agency (EPA) recommends these action steps to help you and your 

family be “SunWise.” 

Do Not Burn 

Sunburns significantly increase one’s lifetime risk of developing skin 

cancer, especially for children. 

Avoid Sun Tanning and Tanning Beds 

UV light from tanning beds and the sun causes skin cancer and 

wrinkling. 

Generously Apply Sunscreen 

Generously apply sunscreen: about one ounce to cover all exposed skin 

20 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen should have a Sun 

Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 and provide protection from both 

ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply every two 

hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. 

Wear Protective Clothing 

Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a widebrimmed hat, and sunglasses, when possible. 
Seek Shade 

Seek shade when possible and remember that the sun’s UV rays are strongest between 

10 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

Use Extra Caution Near Water, Snow and Sand 

Water, snow and sand reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance 

of sunburn. 

Check the UV Index 

The UV Index provides important information to help you plan your outdoor activities in 

ways that prevent sun overexposure. The UV Index forecast is issued daily by the National 

Weather Service and EPA. Visit www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindex.html. 

Get Vitamin D Safely 

Get Vitamin D safely through a diet that includes vitamin supplements and foods fortified 

with Vitamin D. Don’t seek the sun. 

Early detection of skin cancer can save your life. A new or changing mole should 

be evaluated by a dermatologist. 

Special Considerations 

for Children 

Recent medical research shows that 

it is important to protect children 

and young adults from overexposure 

to UV radiation. For babies under 6 

months, the American Academy of 

Pediatrics recommends 

(1) avoiding sun exposure, and 

(2) dressing infants in lightweight 

long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and 

brimmed hats. Parents can also 

apply sunscreen (SPF 15+) to small 

areas like the face and back of the 

hands if protective clothing and 

shade are not available. 

EPA’s SunWise Program 

In response to the serious public 

health threat posed by overexposure 

to UV radiation, EPA is working 

with schools and communities 

across the nation through the 

SunWise Program. SunWise is an 

environmental and health education 

program that teaches children how 

to protect themselves from 

overexposure to the sun. 

The UV Index forecasts the strength of the sun’s harmful rays. 

The higher the number, the greater the chance of sun damage. 

Visit www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindex.html. 

For More Information 

To learn more about UV radiation, the action steps for sun 

protection, and the SunWise Program, call EPA’s Stratospheric 

Ozone Information Hotline at 800.296.1996, or visit our Web site 

at www.epa.gov/sunwise.