More people are sunburned in the spring than any other time.  At least in the summer, the sun actually feels hot.  And usually, by the time midsummer comes, we've spent enough time out in the sun to have developed a little bit of a tan. 

During spring break, however, we're still pale from spending the winter inside.  And the sun doesn't feel too hot.  In fact, the warmth is a welcome break after winter's chill.  Lobster-red sunburns are the norm during spring break.  But what can you do to take care of skin in order to prevent them? 

First of all, remember your natural sunscreen.  It's easy to remember to slather yourself with natural sunscreen when you walk out into ninety-five degree heat.  But the sun is just as damaging in the spring.  Use at least SPF 30.  And a sunscreen with SPF 40 is even better. 

When summertime comes and the great outdoors is too beautiful to resist, it’s easy to wander outside without giving any thought to protecting your skin. However, this can lead to painful sunburns, which will increase your risk of skin cancer later in your life. A few minutes of preparation today will keep your skin healthy – without ruining your summertime fun.
You should use sunscreen regularly, reapplying as necessary throughout the day if you spend long periods of time outdoors. There are many types and brands of sunscreen on the market. Some are designed specifically for children: they’re bright when applied, so that you can be sure that you’ve covered all of your child’s exposed skin, but soon fade away. Other sunscreens are mixed with moisturizers and even makeup to offer you a small amount of everyday protection. There are also waterproof “sport” sunscreens, designed to protect you while you sweat or enjoy time in the water.

Most people know about the dangers of too much sun on skin and the importance of using sunscreen on sunny, summer days.  However, the many choices and levels of protection offered in sunscreen products can leave parents confused.  Understanding how protection against sun damage  works can help people feel confident that they are choosing the best sunscreen for themselves and their families.  Overexposure to ultraviolet radiation, or UV, results in skin damage.  Two types of ultraviolet radiation, UVA and UVB, pose the most hazard to human skin.  Tans and sunburns are caused by UVB.  Powerful enough to penetrate the top layer of skin, UVB is strongest in the summer months when the earth has moved closer to the sun.  In contrast, UVA penetrates deeper into the second layer of skin, and with the ability to permeate windows and thin clothing, UVA causes the most long-term harm.  With proper protection, parents can minimize the damage caused by these types of UV rays.