Rub it on. Sunscreen with at least SPF 15 should be used whenever you spend time outdoors. To be effective, sunscreen needs to be generously applied 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapplied throughout the day, especially after swimming or physical activity. Babies under six months should spend very little time in the sun. Be especially careful to protect the skin and eyes of older babies and children.
Sunglasses protect the tender skin around the eyes and reduce the risk of developing cataracts.
Look for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. Wrap-around lenses are ideal, because they keep UV rays from hitting the sides of the eyes. In the same way that skin is affected, UV damage can increase the risk of cancers in various parts of the eye. UV radiation may also worsen other eye conditions, such as cataracts and macular degeneration. For more information about protecting your skin and eyes from excessive sun exposure, call the Broome County Health Department at 778-3944.