Dr. Sarro offers the following tips on how people can protect themselves from the sun during outdoor summer activities. Hailing from South Florida, he has year-round experience dealing with the problems caused by sun exposure:

1. Avoid unnecessary sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., the sun’s peak hours.

2. Make sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and make sure to apply it at least 15 minutes before going outdoors. It should be reapplied every two to three hours and after going swimming or participating in activities where you may sweat excessively.

3. Men are notorious for not wanting to wear sunscreen because they don’t like the way it feels, or they perceive it to be greasy. For both men and women who fall into these categories, sprays or gels can be utilized. The higher alcohol content in these products is often more tolerable than creams or lotions.

4. Apply sunscreen even if you’re wearing makeup with sun protection. Studies show that a foundation’s sun protective value lasts only about two hours.

5. The so-called "physical blockers" such as zinc and titanium tend to offer the best protection against both UVB and UVA, the forms of solar radiation that damage skin the most.  While many people think these types of creams as white and pasty, zinc and titanium can now be found in sunscreens that go on clear.

6. Wear wraparound sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection. Try to stay away from mirrored sunglasses because they intensify the sun’s rays which can ultimately damage your eyes.

7. Clothing provides very little protection from extended stays in the sun. The American Academy of Dermatology provides information on its Web site for obtaining semi-stylish clothing which confers an SPF of 30 or greater. This is great for boaters, anglers or individuals with a history of multiple skin cancers. Also, rash guards, (neoprene garments worn by surfers), can be excellent means of sun protection, especially for patients who are outdoors in the water for extended periods.

8. Some prescription medications, such as acne treatments and birth control pills, increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. If you’re taking these medications, increase your sun protection.

About Dr. Robert Sarro: Dr. Robert Sarro, dermatologist at Boca Raton Community Hospital in South Florida.  Dr. Sarro received his medical degree from the George Washington University School of Medicine and completed his residency and internship at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.  He is a fellow with the American Academy of Dermatology and his other professional associations include the Palm Beach Dermatology Society, the National Psoriasis Foundation and the Southern Florida Psoriasis Support Group Foundation. 

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