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Posts Tagged ‘sun safety’

Total Eclipse and Fresh Start!

Posted in Healthy People, tagged , , on April 4, 2024| Leave a Comment »

Spring is here, a time of revival and renewal, and many of us are gearing up for the total solar eclipse on April 8th! This is a very exciting time, as the eclipse will be visible across Ohio. Amongst our excitement, we mustn’t forget to consider safety for those who are viewing the solar eclipse.

Solar eclipse above trees.

According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), “Viewing any part of the bright Sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury.” This means we need to take the steps necessary to protect our eyes during the partial phases of the solar eclipse–these phases occur prior to and following totality. Please note: sunglasses are NOT safe for viewing the Sun. Per NASA, “eclipse glasses” are thousands of times darker and should comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard.

Check locally for community agencies distributing approved eclipse glasses. Examples of these agencies include local health departments, libraries, visitor’s centers, and museums. The American Astronomical Society has also composed a list of reliable suppliers of eclipse glasses.

Upon receiving a pair of eclipse glasses, you should inspect the glasses for any tears, scratches, or damage. If the glasses appear damaged, you should discard them.

Viewing the solar eclipse is an outdoor activity, and precautions should be taken to protect yourselves and your loved ones from the sun’s UV rays. Sun protection includes:

  • Applying sunscreen:
    • SPF of at least 30 (Blocks ~97% of UVB rays)
    • Broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB ray protection)
    • Water-resistant
    • Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating
    • Use a mineral-based sunscreen for little ones 6 months and older
  • Avoiding the sun during peak hours (10:00 am-2:00 pm)
  • Wearing sun protective (UPF) clothing (dark and medium-colored clothing)
  • Wearing a wide-brim hat (least 3 inches of brim)

Safely enjoy this spectacular outdoor spring activity with your loved ones!

Written by: Caitlin Mathews-Smith, Family and Consumer Sciences, Guernsey County, Ohio State University Extension, mathews-smith.1@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Jessica Lowe, Family and Consumer Sciences, Pickaway County, Ohio State University Extension, lowe.495@osu.edu

Sources:

American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2024). Sun Protection. American Academy of Dermatology. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection

American Astronomical Society. (2024). About the ISO 12312-2 standard for solar viewers. Solar Eclipse Across America. https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/iso12312-2

American Astronomical Society. (2024). Suppliers of Safe Solar Viewers & Filters. Solar Eclipse Across America. https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/viewers-filters

SMD Content Editors (Ed.). (2024, February). Safety – NASA Science. https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/safety/

Photo Credits: Microsoft Office Word.

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More Fun with Less Sun

Posted in Healthy People, tagged , , , , , , , , on March 1, 2024| Leave a Comment »

Three individuals smiling at the beach. All are wearing sunglasses and a man is also wearing a hat.

As the weather warms up, we spend more time outdoors and we need to take steps to protect our skin, lips, and eyes. According to the Mayo Clinic, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and 90% is caused by exposure to the sun. As you head outdoors, follow these ten tips to protect yourself and your loved ones from the damaging effects of the sun and reduce your chance of skin cancer:

  1. Apply broad spectrum sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends wearing sunscreen every day to prevent sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. Print out this informative infographic about sunscreen and post it somewhere everyone can see as a friendly reminder to protect your skin.  
  2. Use lip protection. Just like your skin, your lips need protection from the sun. Use a lip balm that contains 30 SPF and protects you from both UVA and UVB rays (or says broad spectrum).
  3. Wear sunglasses. Slip on some cool shades and protect your eyes. People of all ages should wear sunglasses.
  4. Wear a wide-brimmed hat. Grab a hat that is tightly woven and has a rim at least 3-inches wide. This will protect the top of your head, your neck, your face, and ears from the sun.
  5. Wear sun protective clothing. Many fabrics have an Ultra Protective Factor (UPF) that protects your skin. Wearing clothes with 50 UPF is like wearing sunscreen with 30 SPF. Look for bathing suits, sun shirts, pants, and other clothing items with 50 UPF to provide a convenient way to protect your skin.
  6. Limit sun exposure. Avoid being outdoors when ultraviolet rays are their strongest, which tends to be between 10 AM and 4 PM.
  7. Seek shade. When you are outside, look for shade or bring your own. An umbrella, a shade tent, or natural shade can reduce your sun exposure. But don’t rely on shade alone to protect your skin.
  8. Protect windows. If you spend time near windows, make sure they block UV rays. To better understand the effect of spending time near a window, view the New England Journal of Medicine to see a picture of a 69-year-old truck driver and the sun damage caused to one side of his face.
  9. Perform skin self-exams. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends that individuals, regardless of age, gender, and ethnicity, perform monthly skin self-exams. They have helpful resources to learn how to check your skin, what to look for, and how to record your findings.
  10. See a board-certified dermatologist every year. You should see a dermatologist once a year, or more often if you are at a higher risk of skin cancer, for a full-body, professional skin exam. When found early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
An older couple is smiling and the man and woman are wearing sunglasses and hats.

Statistics show that 1 out of every 5 Americans will develop a form of skin cancer in their lifetime. By following these tips and avoiding tanning beds, you can significantly reduce your risk of skin cancer, all while having more fun with less sun.

More Resources:
Did you know that many Ohio State University Extension educators are trained to teach about sun safety? Visit our webpage and contact the OSU Extension professional in your county to schedule an educational workshop today!

Written by: Laura M. Stanton, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Warren County. Email: stanton.60@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Heather Reister, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Butler County.

Sources:
American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2023, May 15). Find skin cancer: How to perform a skin self-exam. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/find/check-skin

American Cancer Society. (2023, July). Preventing skin cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/sun-and-uv/skin-cancer-prevention-infographic.html

Gordon, J.R.S. and Brieva, J.C. (2012, April 19). Unilateral dermatoheliosis. The New England Journal of Medicine. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMicm1104059

Mayo Clinic (n.d.). Infographic: Skin cancer. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/skin-cancer/multimedia/skin-cancer-infographic/ifg-20441507

Richard, E. G. (2022). All about sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation. https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen

Photo Credits: Adobe Stock.

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Getting Outside and Staying Safe

Posted in Healthy People, tagged , , , , , , , , , on May 25, 2020| Leave a Comment »

Today is often considered the “unofficial” start to summer. That means longer days and warmer weather for getting outside. However, this summer brings a new and unsettling guest: COVID-19. To help you stay safe while you are outdoors, the Ohio Department of Health and the National Recreation and Park Association have made the following recommendations:

  • Follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance on personal hygiene. Wash hands, carry hand sanitizer, and stay home if you have any symptoms.
  • Follow recommendations for face masks and physical distancing.
  • Only go outdoors with those who live under the same roof.
  • Visit places that are close to your home. Refrain from travel that requires you to stop along the way or be in close contact with others.
  • If a parking lot is full or blocked, move on. Do not park in grass or on roadways.
  • Warn others of your presence and step off trails to allow others to pass safely.
  • Expect public restrooms to be closed.
  • Bring water or drinks. Drinking fountains should not be used.
  • Bring a bag for trash and leave no trace.
COVID-19: Physical Distancing in Public Parks and Trails

Plan Your Trip Before Heading Out

Currently, most outdoor spaces in Ohio state parks, wildlife areas, forests, natural areas, and preserves are open. This includes trails, dog parks, docks, fishing piers, and boat ramps.

At this time, state lodges, visitor centers, playgrounds, and rest rooms remain closed. Visit Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) for the most up to date information about what state facilities are open and closed.

If you plan to go somewhere other than an ODNR facility, do some research before leaving. Most places have a website or a Facebook page with updated visitor information.

Expect places to be crowded. If you step off a trail, avoid poison ivy or tall grass that might have ticks. Practice sun safety to protect your skin and your eyes.

Find New Places to Explore

If you need help finding new places to explore, try these tips:

  • Start local. Ask neighbors and friends to recommend their favorite places to explore. A quick internet search can help you find local destinations, depending on what you want to do. Try a search such as “places to hike near me” and you will quickly find destinations, reviews, and images.
  • Visit Ohio Trails Partnership. Click the “Find a Trail” tab to find destinations based on geographical regions.
  • Diversify your destinations. In addition to state wildlife areas, forests, and nature preserves operated by ODNR, there are also private nature centers and preserves. For recommendations, try a search such as “nature areas near me.”

Get Outside and Experience the Great Outdoors

Remember to be safe and do some homework before leaving home. Be sure to check the CDC, ODH, and ODNR websites since COVID-19 updates happen frequently. Then, get outside, breath in some fresh air, and reap the physical, mental, and psychological benefits of being outdoors. Enjoy!

Sources:

Cloth Face Coverings (Masks) COVID-19 Checklist. Ohio Department of Health. Retrieved from https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/checklists/english-checklists/cloth-face-coverings-covid-19-checklist

Dolesh, R.J. and Colman, A. (2020, March 16). Keeping a Safe Physical Distance in Parks and on Trails During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Retrieved from https://www.nrpa.org/blog/keeping-a-safe-social-distance-in-parks-and-on-trails-during-the-covid-19-pandemic

Ducharme, J. (2019, February 28). Spending Just 20 Minutes in a Park Makes You Happier. Here’s What Else Being Outside Can Do for Your Health. Retrieved from https://time.com/5539942/green-space-health-wellness

Social Distancing. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing.html

Symptoms of Coronavirus. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html

WRITTEN BY: Laura Stanton, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Warren County.

REVIEWED BY: Dan Remley, Field Specialist, Food Nutrition and Wellness, Ohio State University Extension.

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Take Me Out to The Ball Game – Plan Ahead to Keep Your Family Safe at the Park

Posted in Healthy People, tagged , , , on April 23, 2019| Leave a Comment »

It is the season where many of us are spending hours (or even days) at a ball park or sports field. You may be there for yourself, your spouse, or more likely with your children or grandchildren. But have you planned ahead to keep yourself and your loved ones protected from the sun, insects, or unsafe equipment?

Start by being aware of your surroundings – did you park under a light? Can you safely move from your car to the field or diamond? There are often prime parking spots that allow for safer trips back and forth from the car, you may need to arrive early to get one. Are there places to sit like bleachers that are in good repair, or do you need to bring your own chair or cushion? Are there close bathroom facilities or a drinking fountain?

If the child in your life is playing a sport, make sure to check the league equipment and safety rules before you sign them up. There may be equipment you need toKids playing baseball order, or rules about the number of innings they can play or things like a pitch count. Kidshealth.org offers a great start to sports safety lists for a number of organized sports as well as bike riding.

Here is a list of a few things that can make your next outdoor trip to a park, field, or diamond a more pleasant experience:

  • Avoid ticks and mosquitoes by covering up and using an insect repellent. When you get home do a body check to insure that ticks are removed before they can embed into your skin and shower within two hours. The Environmental Protection Agency has an interactive chart to help you select the right insect repellent.
  • Practice sun safety with wide brimmed hats, and waterproof sunscreen that is 30 – 50 SPF and can be reapplied every 2 hours. Check the expiration date on the bottle. Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
  • Ensure proper hydration by drinking about 2 cups of cool water before you hit the field, and then continuing to drink during time-outs and halftime, and following up with re-hydrating after the activity is finished. Sports drinks are not necessary for most athletes, good old tap water works for most of us with less cost and calories too.
  • If your outdoor time includes a pool or beach – make sure lifeguards or trusted adults are always watching children. Enforce water rules – “No diving means, No diving.”
  • Check any playground equipment to ensure that it is in good condition and not too hot to burn the tender skin of young children.

By practicing these safety tips, your trip to the ballpark or field can be a hit!

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm, https://www.cdc.gov/bam/safety/cool.html.

United State Environmental Protection Agency, https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/find-repellent-right-you.

Writer: Lisa Barlage, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Ross County.

Reviewer: Pat Brinkman, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Fayette County

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Ways to Stay Sun Safe this Summer!

Posted in Healthy People, tagged , , , , on May 11, 2018| Leave a Comment »

After our harsh winter, it is hard to believe – but I think warm sunny weather has finally arrived. If your family is anything like our family, summers are busier than the school year. My daughter will be taking five animals to fair this year. Therefore, over the next several months she will be spending some time outside breaking her animals. My daughter gets tired of me reminding her to apply sunscreen every two hours. I try to limit her time in the sun to only in the evenings and encourage her to wear long sleeve shirts. I do these things so that she is safer from sun damage.

Do the sunny days make you wonder about skin cancer or sun damage? Here are some stats about skin cancer:

  • Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States.
  • There are three types of skin cancer: basal cell, squamous cell and melanoma.
  • Early detection is the key in diagnosing and treating skin cancer.

This graphic helps you see the ABCD’s of Melanoma:

Look at your moles for any of these irregularities:

A – Asymmetrical – irregular or unbalanced

B – Border – irregular border

C – Color – color variation

D – Diameter – is the diameter bigger than a pencil eraser?

S – Sensation

Remember if you notice any of these irregularities, be on the safe side and contact your health professional.

If you must be out in the sun, what can you do to protect your skin?

  • Stay out of the sun as much as possible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Wear protective clothing and a hat (long sleeves offer some protection).
  • Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with 30 spf (sun protection factor).
  • Watch for drug interactions with the sun because some drugs make you more prone to sunburn.
  • Be careful on cloudy days – even if it is cloudy, you can still get sun damage.
  • Avoid indoor tanning and UV tanning booths.
  • Do not burn.
  • Apply 1 ounce (2 Tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside.
  • Reapply every 2 hours, immediately after swimming, or excessive sweating.

Remember to check your skin regularly for changes. Visit your health care professional or dermatologist to get any suspicious mole or skin blemish checked out.

Still curious and want more info?

What can you do to stay Sun Safe? Share your ideas in our comment section. 

 References:

Take Steps to Prevent Skin Cancer

https://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/parenting/safety/steps-to-prevent-skin-cancer

Sun’s Up – Cover Up: Sun Safety Skin Cancer Prevention PowerPoint, OSU Sun Safety Team, 2012

 

Written by: Brenda Sandman-Stover, Extension Program Assistant, 4-H and Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Greene County, sandman-stover.1@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Michelle Treber, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Pickaway County, treber.1@osu.edu

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Have a Safe Fourth of July!

Posted in Healthy People, Healthy Relationships, tagged , , , , , , , , , , on July 4, 2016| Leave a Comment »

marie fourth july

Fourth of July celebrations include fireworks, backyard barbecues, and maybe a trip to the beach. Whatever you have planned, enjoy the holiday and be safe.

Fireworks Safety – The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to enjoy a public display put on by professionals.  Stay at least 500 feet away from the show.  Many states outlaw fireworks.  If someone is setting off fireworks at home, they should follow these safety guidelines:

  • Never give fireworks to small children and always follow the instructions on the packaging.
  • Keep a supply of water close by.
  • Light only one firework at a time.
  • Be sure the person lighting fireworks always has eye protection on.
  • Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
  • Never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials.
  • Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks.

Beach Safety – If visiting the ocean and swimming, be sure to know how to swim in the surf and only swim at a lifeguarded beach, within the designated swim area.

  • Keep a close eye and constant attention on children and adults while at the beach
  • Keep alert for local weather conditions. Check if flags are posted for warning signs.
  • Swim sober and always with a friend.
  • Have young children and inexperience swimmers wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket.
  • Protect your neck – don’t dive in head first. Walk carefully into open waters.

Rip Currents – Be aware of the dangers of rip currents and remember the following:

  • If someone is caught in the rip current, swim parallel to the shore until out of the current.
  • Once free, they should turn and swim toward shore.
  • If they can’t swim to shore, they should float or tread water until free of the current and then head toward shore.
  • Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist near these structures.

Grilling Safety – Every season people are injured while using charcoal or gas grills.  Follow these steps to cook safely.

  • Never grill indoors – not in the house, camper, tent or enclosed areas.
  • Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
  • Make sure everyone, including pets stay away from the grill.
  • Keep the grill away from the house, deck, tree branches or anything that may catch fire.
  • Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.

Sun Safety – Limit exposure to direct sunlight between 10 am and 4 pm.  Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with a protection of at least 15.

  • Reapply sunscreen often.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Wear sunglasses that will absorb 100% of UV sunlight to protect your eyes.

 

Written by: Beth Stefura, M Ed, RD, LD.  Family and Consumer and Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension,  Mahoning County

Reviewed by: Donna Green, BS, MA.  Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Erie County

Sources: Redcross.org/news/article/safety tips

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Are You Sun Safe Behind Glass?

Posted in Healthy People, tagged , , , , on July 16, 2015| 1 Comment »

Do you think windows will provide sun safety protection? Think again. Glass windows only effectively block Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, leaving you exposed to Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays. Car windshields are partially treated to filter out UVA rays, but side windows may be letting in 63% of the UVA rays.

Does it really make a difference? A recent study published in the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology discovered 53% of all skin cancers in the US occur on the left side (driver’s side) of the body. With early, non-invasive melanomas 76% were found to be on the left side.car windshield

Since, many of us drive our cars without applying sun screen or at least not doing it within the last two hours, how can we protect ourselves? Besides sunscreen you can have transparent window film applied to your car windows which will screen out almost 100% of the UVA and UVB rays without reducing visibility. It is available throughout the US. To ensure quality of window film, check to see if the product has The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation.

Sunroofs also increase your exposure to UVA rays. The study found over 82% of the skin cancers were on the person’s head or neck. If you have a sunroof keep it closed on sunny days or wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen. The second most common area for skin cancers were on the arm, so put on sunscreen and a long-sleeve shirt. Be sure and wear sun glasses too.

So if you are not safe from UVA rays in the car, what about your home or office windows? You guessed it. UVA rays are getting through. Another study found more signs of sun damage on the sides of people’s faces that were closer tapartment windowso a window. Home or office windows may allow at least 50% of the UVA rays to pass through. Wrinkles were one of the signs of sun damage seen along with rougher textured skin. The study found exposure to UVA rays accelerated the aging of the skin by five to seven years. This exposure increases your risk of skin cancer.

How do you protect yourself? Wear at least a 15 SPF sunscreen everyday year around. Install protective window film to the windows facing the sun of your office and home. Do you have shaded areas around your house for outdoor activities? If not install shade sails, awnings, or verandas with materials blocking out 94% as recommended. Trees and vine-covered pergolas can provide needed shade for outdoor activities as well as shade to windows in the house. Check out WebShade (www.webshade.com.au/) to do a shade audit for your property or to see how you can plan shade around your home.

Protect yourself from UVA and UVB rays by using sunscreen, installing protective window film, wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. Long-sleeve clothing will also help. Don’t forget to buckle up to stay safe.

Author: Pat Brinkman, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Fayette County, Miami Valley EERA

Reviewer: Beth Stefura, M Ed, RD,LD, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Mahoning County, Crossroads EERA
References:

American Cancer Society, [2015]. What’s your sun safety IQ? Available at http://www.cancer.org/healthy/toolsandcalculators/quizzes/sun-safety/index
Greenwood, J. [2015]. Sun-safe homes. Available at http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/shade/sun-safe-homes

Skin Cancer Foundation, [2015]. Driving is linked to more skin cancers on the left side of the body. Available at http://www.skincancer.org/publications/sun-and-skin-news/summer-2010-27-2/driving-linked

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Practice Sun Safety This Summer

Posted in Healthy People, tagged , , , , , , , , on July 9, 2015| Leave a Comment »

mom_beach_12525810_250_166

Did you know that the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes?  More than 1 million people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer each year. Skin cancer is  the most common form of cancer in the USA. This is unfortunate because skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer.

Youth are particularly at risk of overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation since a large amount of the average person’s UV exposure occurs before the age of 18. Even one severe sunburn in childhood can double the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. As parents, you can give your children a legacy of sun safety by helping them develop good sun protections habits early in their lives.  Here are a few tips to help reduce sun damage this summer and throughout their life:

  • Apply broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 before you and your family goes outside, even on slightly cloudy or cool days. Don’t forget to put a thick layer on all parts of exposed skin.
  • Look for some “fun “colors such as blue, pink, red, etc. They look like skin paint which may be fun for kids to wear, and also you can see your kids in a crowd of other children. Many of these varieties are available online.
  • Be sure to reapply more sun screen if your children are playing in water or sweating.
  • Remember, sunscreen works best when combined with other options to prevent UV damage.
  • Have children wear hats that have a brim to shade their eyes, sides of the faces and back of neck. Make sure they wear them when they are in the sun.
  • Also wear sunglasses to protect the eyes and the sensitive skin around them.
  • Have children wear shirts with sleeves, especially to cover the upper back and shoulders, where the sun hits most directly.
  • Limit outdoor play time during the 10am-4pm when ultraviolet rays are the most intense. When outdoors during midday, help children find shady spots to play.

Written by: Susan Zies, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Wood County, zies.1@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Patrice Powers-Barker, MA, CFLE, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Lucas County,powers-barker.1@osu.edu

Sources:

http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm

http://www2.epa.gov/sites/production/files/documents/sunscreen.pdf

http://www.cancer.org/healthy/morewaysacshelpsyoustaywell/acs-skin-cancer-prevention-activities

 

 

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Fun in the Sun!

Posted in Healthy People, tagged , , , , on May 27, 2014| Leave a Comment »

Girls Spraying Each Other While Washing Dog

We have officially started summer with the Memorial Day Weekend! The weather was beautiful in our part of Ohio and after weeks of cloudy, rainy cold weather, we were all ready to be outside and enjoy the warm sun. This is a good time to remind ourselves how to be safe while having fun in the sun!

We often think about the dangers from too much sun. Much is written about using sunscreen, limiting time out during the hottest part of the day, etc. We sometimes forget to also protect ourselves and our children from excessive heat.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has great advice for us:

  • Drink more fluids. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink. Keep a bottle of water close by at all times.
  • Don’t drink liquids with lots of sugar or alcohol – they can actually cause you to loose body fluid.
  • Some medications can cause dehydration, check with your doctor or pharmacist and follow advice about sun and heat exposure.
  • Infants, young children and the elderly are more sensitive to excessive heat and sun exposure. Be sure and limit their time spent outside on hot, sunny days.
  • If the heat is excessive, try to stay in an air-conditioned place. Electric fans can help but once the temperature reaches 90°, fans do not prevent heat-related illness.
  • Wear light weight, light colored clothing.
  • You might want to carry a water bottle mister or keep a wet washcloth in your cooler for instant relief from the heat!
  • Limit your outdoor activity to morning or evening hours if possible. Between 10 am and 4 pm the sun is its strongest.
  • Try to rest in shady areas.
  • Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

The American Cancer Society provides a sun-safety quiz (http://www.cancer.org/healthy/toolsandcalculators/quizzes/app/sun-safety-quiz)

Take a few minutes to take their quiz and see how sun smart you are!

So, enjoy being outside in the sun and heat, but be smart…protect yourself and those in your care so that everyone has a happy, healthy summer!

 

Writer: Marilyn Rabe, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Franklin County, rabe.9@osu.edu

Reviewer: Michelle Treber, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Pickaway County, treber.1@osu.edu

 

Sources:

http://www.cancer.org/healthy/besafeinthesun/index

http://www.extension.org/pages/32345/playing-it-safe-in-the-summer-heat-sun

http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.asp

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Sunless Tanners

Posted in Healthy People, tagged , , , , , , , , on April 28, 2014| Leave a Comment »

Have you started wearing your shorts? Are you white legs showing? We are happy to have the warmer temperatures but having very pale legs can make some people feel self-conscious. We know we should not use tanning bedsSunless Tanner but how about the sunless tanning products?

Sunless tanning products are recommended by the American Academy of Dermatologists. But are they safe? The most common ingredient in sunless tanning lotions is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). This is a color additive approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for external application on the skin. DHA has not been approved to be applied to areas near the eyes, nose and mouth, so avoid these areas when applying. DHA comes from sugar and when it is rubbed on the skin it produces a golden brown color. The reaction is much like a peach turning brown when exposed to the air. The color usually fades in 7-10 days.

No clear evidence has appeared indicating DHA is harmful as long as it is applied externally as directed on the container. Self-tanning sprays carry some concerns to risk of inhalation and ingestion of which neither is recommended. If using spray tanning products you should wear protective gear for your eyes, nose and mouth protecting the mucous membranes.

Shopping for a sunless tanner
Look for products containing dihydroxyacetone (DHA) as an active ingredient. Most preparations contain 3-5 percent DHA. Avoid products that do not contain DHA as they may be a tan accelerator or contain skin irritants. Self tanning products are available in lotions, creams, sprays, and towels or wipes.

Applying sunless tanners
To achieve even coverage from your sunless tanner follow these steps:
1. Exfoliate. Using an exfoliating soap or rub will help remove dead skin cells, especially rub ankles, knees and elbows.
2. Make sure skin is dried off before you start to apply the sunless tanners.
3. Apply to your body in sections. Apply to your legs, then your arms and then torso. Apply in a circular motion to achieve uniform color. Lightly apply to areas from the ankles to the feet and wrists to the hands. You should not apply tanner on your soles of your feet or the palms of your hands. Wash and dry your hands after applying to each section of your body.
4. Dilute sunless tanner on joints. Your knees, ankles and elbows tend to absorb more tanning solution, so lightly rub these areas with a damp cloth or apply some moisturizing lotion.
5. Allow at least 10 minutes to dry before you get dressed. Wearing loose clothing and avoiding sweating for the next three hours will help you have better results.

The American Academy of Dermatology has a YouTube video on applying sunless tanners check it out at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqpGvQwTaao

Sunless tanners do not protect you from Ultraviolet light, so apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen of at least at 30, before you go out in the sun.

Author: Pat Brinkman, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension Fayette County, Miami Valley EERA

Reviewer: Shannon Carter, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension Fairfield County, Heart of Ohio EERA

References:
American Academy of Dermatology, [2012]. Dermatologists give young adults something to tweet about: tanning is out, American Academy of Dermatology. Available at http://www.aad.org/stories-and-news/news-releases/dermatologists-give-young-adults-something-to-tweet-about-tanning-s-out
Bank, D. [2014]. Ask the expert: Can sunless tanners cause cancer? Skin Cancer Foundation. Available at http://www.skincancer.org/news/tanning/study-finds-sunless-tanning-deters-uv-tanning
Mayo Clinic Staff, [2013]. Sunless tanning is a practical alternative to sunbathing. Find out how sunless tanning products work, including possible risks and how to get the best results. Available at http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/adult-health/in-depth/sunless-tanning/art-20046803
Palm, M., [2014]. Ask the expert: Are self-tanners safe? Skin Cancer Foundation. Available at http://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/ask-the-experts/can-sunless-tanners-cause-cancer
Skin Cancer Foundation, [2014]. Study finds sunless tanning temporality deters UV tanning. Skin Cancer Foundation. Available at http://www.skincancer.org/news/tanning/study-finds-sunless-tanning-deters-uv-tanning

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