Avoid the sun, especially between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the hours when the sun's ultraviolet rays are strongest. Seek shade until after 4 p.m. Seek shade whenever possible from trees or umbrellas, and limit exposure to reflective surfaces such as water. UV rays can be reflected off sand, water, snow, tile and buildings. Wear protective, tightly woven clothing to shield against midday sun exposure. Even with lotion on, limit exposure to the sun.
Experts consider tanning to be a sign of skin damage.
When you are in the sun, wear a hat with a wide brim to protect the face, head, ears and neck from damage. Wear sunglasses, because the sun also causes cataracts. Sunglasses should block 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. Avoid tanning salons, since artificial UV radiation is just as bad for your skin as sunlight. The index is a forecast of what the intensity of the sun's UV rays will be around noon.