Warm weather, longer days and more time outside are all part of summer in West Tennessee. Whether you are working in the yard, heading to the pool, watching a ball game or taking a walk, it is important to protect your skin from the sun.
One of the best ways to do that is by understanding UV rays and choosing the right sunscreen.
UV rays can damage your skin even when you do not feel like you are getting burned. Over time, too much sun exposure can lead to sunburn, early signs of aging, dark spots, eye damage and a higher risk of skin cancer.
The good news is that daily sun protection can make a difference.
What Are UV Rays?
UV rays, also called ultraviolet rays, are a type of energy that comes from the sun. You cannot see UV rays, but your skin can still be affected by them.
There are three main types of UV rays:
UVA rays
UVA rays can reach deeper layers of the skin. They are often linked to early signs of aging, such as wrinkles and sun spots. UVA rays can also play a role in skin cancer risk.
UVB rays
UVB rays mostly affect the outer layers of the skin. They are the main cause of sunburn and can directly damage the DNA in skin cells. This damage can increase the risk of skin cancer.
UVC rays
UVC rays are the strongest type of UV rays, but they are mostly blocked by the earth’s ozone layer. Because of this, UVA and UVB rays are the main types of rays people need to protect themselves from outdoors.
How Do UV Rays Affect Your Skin?
Too much UV exposure can harm your skin in several ways. Some damage happens right away, while other changes may show up years later.
UV rays can cause:
- Sunburn
- Wrinkles
- Dark spots
- Uneven skin tone
- Skin damage
- Eye damage, including cataracts
- A higher risk of skin cancer
UV exposure can happen even on cloudy days. It can also happen while driving, sitting near windows or spending short amounts of time outside. That is why sunscreen should not be saved only for beach days or pool days.
Why Sunscreen Matters
Sunscreen helps protect your skin from UV rays. When used the right way, it can lower your risk of sunburn, help prevent early skin aging and reduce your risk of skin cancer.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends choosing sunscreen that has three important features: broad-spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher and water resistance. Broad-spectrum means the sunscreen helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Water resistance means the sunscreen stays on wet or sweaty skin for a period of time before it needs to be reapplied.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen
Shopping for sunscreen can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be complicated. Look for these words on the label:
1. Broad-Spectrum Protection
Choose a sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum.” This means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays are often linked to aging skin, while UVB rays are linked to sunburn. Both can contribute to skin cancer risk, so you need protection from both.
2. SPF 30 or Higher
SPF stands for sun protection factor. It tells you how well the sunscreen helps protect your skin from UVB rays.
For most people, SPF 30 or higher is a good choice. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends SPF 30 or higher for daily sun protection.
Higher SPF products can offer more protection, but no sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays. The most important thing is to apply enough sunscreen and reapply it often.
3. Water Resistance
If you will be swimming, sweating, playing sports or spending a long time outside, choose a water-resistant sunscreen.
Water-resistant sunscreen is not waterproof. It still needs to be reapplied. Most products are labeled for either 40 or 80 minutes of water resistance.
How to Apply Sunscreen the Right Way
Sunscreen only works well when you use enough of it and put it on the right way.
Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin before going outside. Do not forget easy-to-miss areas, such as:
- Ears
- Neck
- Back of the hands
- Tops of the feet
- Hairline
- Scalp, especially if your hair is thin or parted
- Lips, using a lip balm with SPF
If you are outside for more than two hours, reapply sunscreen. You should also reapply after swimming, sweating or toweling off. The CDC also reminds people that sunscreen works best when used with other sun safety habits, such as shade, protective clothing and sunglasses.
Don’t Rely on Sunscreen Alone
Sunscreen is important, but it should not be your only form of protection.
You can also protect your skin by:
- Staying in the shade when possible
- Wearing a wide-brimmed hat
- Wearing sunglasses that block UV rays
- Choosing lightweight, long-sleeved clothing
- Avoiding tanning beds
- Limiting direct sun exposure during peak sunlight hours
- Checking the UV index before outdoor activities
Tanning beds are not a safe alternative to the sun. They also expose the skin to UV radiation and can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Should Children Wear Sunscreen?
Children need sun protection, too.
For children 6 months and older, use sunscreen on exposed skin when they are outside. For babies younger than 6 months, the CDC shares that the FDA recommends keeping infants out of the sun during midday and using shade and protective clothing when they need to be outdoors.
Parents and caregivers should also help children build healthy sun habits early. Teach them to wear sunscreen, take shade breaks and wear hats or protective clothing when they are outside.
Make Sunscreen Part of Your Daily Routine
You do not have to be at the pool or beach to need sunscreen. In West Tennessee, everyday activities can add up to a lot of sun exposure.
Consider wearing sunscreen when you are:
- Driving
- Walking outside
- Working in the yard
- Attending outdoor events
- Playing or watching sports
- Sitting near windows
- Running errands
A daily facial sunscreen or moisturizer with sunscreen can be a simple way to protect your skin year-round.
When to See a Dermatology Provider
In addition to protecting your skin, it is important to pay attention to changes. You should contact a dermatology provider if you notice:
- A mole that changes in size, shape or color
- A new or unusual spot on your skin
- A sore that does not heal
- A spot that bleeds, itches or becomes painful
- A mole or mark that looks different from others on your body
Regular skin checks can help find concerns early. If you have a history of skin cancer, frequent sunburns, tanning bed use or a family history of skin cancer, ask your provider how often you should have a skin exam.
Protect Your Skin Today and in the Future
Sun protection is not just for summer. It is a daily habit that helps protect your skin, your eyes and your long-term health. Before you head outside, remember to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, reapply it often and use extra protection like shade, hats and sunglasses.
Your skin works hard to protect you. Taking a few simple steps each day can help you protect it in return.
West Tennessee Healthcare offers dermatology services to help patients care for their skin and address concerns early. To find a provider, visit wth.org or call 731-541-5000.
Updated: June 30, 2026
