August 13, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health Department Offers Tips to Prevent Sun Damage
August is Summer Sun Safety Month
WARRENTON, Va. – Summer may be winding down, but the sun is still in full force. Community members are busy with outdoor activities, backyard barbeques and beach trips. It is a time when protecting yourself from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and reducing the risk of skin cancer is more important than ever.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer, accounting for about 3.5 million cases in the U.S. Most are caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. UV rays can damage skin cells, leading to wrinkles, discoloration, and even melanoma. They can also harm the eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District is offering important reminders on how to enjoy the sun without experiencing negative consequences.
Summer is a time for enjoying the outdoors, but protecting ourselves from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation should be part of every outdoor activity. Simple steps, such as seeking shade during the strongest midday sun, wearing protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and protecting your eyes with UV-blocking sunglasses, can significantly reduce sun damage and help lower the risk of skin cancer. We encourage everyone in our communities to make sun protection a routine part of staying healthy this summer, said Dr. Jay Carr, health district director.
Ways to protect your skin from the sun include:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or after toweling off.
- Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face, head, ears, and neck.
- Seek shade, especially during midday hours.
It is also important to protect your eyes as sunlight can reflect off sand and water. Sunglasses can help shield your eyes from overexposure to ultraviolet light, which is associated with the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. Choose sunglasses with a UV400 rating or 100% UV protection on the label as not all sunglasses fully protect your eyes. Children should wear sunglasses that indicate the UV protection. Toy sunglasses may not have proper protection.
Whether you are at the beach or working in the yard, don’t forget the sunscreen. Sunscreen needs to be applied 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow the sunscreen and SPF to form a protective film on the skin. Use enough to cover your entire face and body. For individuals doing outdoor work, recreational activities or playing sports, it is recommended that a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher be used. It is also important to determine what sunscreen is best based on the activity or work. Water-resistant sunscreen maintains an appropriate level of SPF after 40 to 80 minutes in water or during excessive sweating. The sunscreen will need to be reapplied after that time.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding sunscreen use on children younger than six months old. The best ways to protect babies are to keep them out of direct sunlight and protected from the sun using hats, stroller covers, umbrellas, and protective clothing.
For more information, contact Rappahannock-Rapidan Health Department at www.rrhd.org.