Enjoy the sun in complete safety

Enjoy the sun in complete safety

UV rays increase your risk of skin cancer
Exposure to UV rays increases your risk of developing melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer, as well as eye cancer and lip cancer.
 A body showing that exposure to UV rays increases the risk of developing the following cancers: skin, eye, lip
Did you know?
About 65% of melanoma cases are due to UV rays. The incidence rate of melanoma in Canada is among the highest in the world. Reduce your risk by using common sense in the sun.

It is also important to recognize the signs of skin cancer. Most skin cancers can be cured if caught early enough. Check your skin regularly and report any changes to your doctor.
Six common sense rules to protect you from the sun
The best way to reduce your risk of skin cancer is to protect yourself from UV rays all year round. Use common sense in the sun - watch the video and follow the 6 tips for sun protection.
Play videoYouTube video poster
 UV Index and Intensity Level Table: 0-2 = low, 3-5 = moderate, 6-7 = high, 8-10 = very high, 11+ = extreme
Check the UV index every day

On days when this index is 3 or more (moderate), it is in your interest to be extra careful to protect your skin properly. Whenever possible, avoid sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when its rays are strongest, or at any time of day when the UV index is 3 or higher.
 Beach umbrella
Look for the shade

If your shadow is shorter than you, it means the sun's rays are strongest - then look for a shady spot. Sit under a tree in the park or under an awning on the restaurant terrace. Remember to bring an umbrella when you go out to protect yourself if needed. Even in the shade, if you can see the sky from where you are, you should still wear protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. This is because UV rays can reach you by reflecting off the surfaces around you.
 Long sleeve sweater
Cover yourself

Did you know that clothes protect you better than sunscreens? Cover your skin as much as possible by wearing clothes made of tight material. You can also purchase clothing labeled with FP UV (UV Protection Factor).
 Big sun hat
Wear a hat

Wear a wide-brimmed hat that protects your head, face, ears, and neck.
 Sunglasses
Wear sunglasses

You don't have to pay a fortune to have good sunglasses; However, be sure to choose a wrap-around, well-fitting frame, as well as lenses that offer UVA and UVB protection. Look for labels that say "UV 400" or "100% UV protection."
 Sunscreen bottle marked with the letters SPF
Make good use of sunscreen

Sunscreens absorb UV rays and prevent them from entering the skin. Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. It is important to apply a generous layer to all areas of your skin that are not covered by clothing. If you bathe, make sure your sunscreen is also water resistant. Remember to use sunscreen as a supplement (not a replacement) for shade, clothing, and hats. Learn more about sunscreen tips.
Some light on UV rays
Did you know that there are three types of ultraviolet (UV) rays?
Type A ultraviolet rays (UVA)
UVA rays make up most of the natural sunlight. These rays are able to penetrate deep into the skin, causing aging and the appearance of wrinkles.
Type B ultraviolet rays (UVB)
UVB rays are the main culprits of sunburn. They are almost 1000 times more powerful than UVA rays.
Type C ultraviolet rays (short wavelength)
These rays never reach the Earth's surface because the atmosphere filters them.
Quick facts about UV rays
UV rays can pass through clouds, fog or haze.
Water, sand, concrete and especially snow reflect the sun's rays and increase their power.
The thinning of the ozone layer surrounding the Earth exposes us more to UV rays.
The sun is the main source of UV radiation, but tanning beds, sunlamps and other artificial tanning devices also emit it.