Here’s how to protect yourself from harmful UV rays this summer.

Every summer, Canadians flock to the nearest patios or beaches to soak up the sun’s warm rays. While you might love the look of that summer glow, a suntan isn’t a sign of healthy skin. Rather, it’s a protective and defensive reaction to an outside irritant. 

"When UV rays penetrate the skin, they cause mutations in the DNA of skin cells," said Dr. Nicole Lee, dermatologist and founder of Epoch Dermatology, in an interview with Women's Health Magazine.

The skin reacts by producing melanin, a natural pigment that absorbs and diffuses UV rays. This melanin is responsible for that famous tan. But treat carefully—a tan doesn’t completely protect the skin from harmful rays. Repeated exposure to the sun continues to damage skin cells, which can lead to the development of skin cancers, such as carcinomas or melanomas.

Unprotected exposure to UV rays—no matter how short or frequent—is enough to damage skin cells. And just because it's not hot or there's a bit of wind doesn't mean UV rays are absent. 

There are two main types of UV rays that affect the skin: UVA, which penetrates deep into the skin and contributes to skin aging, and UVB, which is more superficial but responsible for sunburn and DNA damage.

A Dermatologist's Favourite Drugstore Sunscreens

How to protect yourself from the sun

Don’t worry, it's still possible to enjoy the nice weather without putting your skin at risk. Here's what experts recommend:

• Apply broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even when it's cloudy or cold
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or excessive sweating
• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing if you spend time outdoors
• Avoid direct sunlight between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are most powerful
• Stay in the shade when possible

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