By Dr. Jennifer Forney, Forney Wellness Group, LLC

Ah, sweet summer. The season of barefoot mornings, sandy toes, popsicles on the porch, and long golden hours under a warm, welcoming sun. (After an abnormally cold and rainy spring here in WNY, it’s safe to say we’re ALL looking forward to it.) But our health also depends on some common sense safety precautions. Are you prepared to protect your skin from the sun?

We’ve been talking a lot lately about healthy summer snacks and delicious superfoods. But there’s more to holistic health than just eating well.  

There’s something magical about the way sunshine feels on your skin. It’s energizing, healing and downright joyful. While a little sun can brighten your mood (and lift your vitamin D levels), too much can quietly — and dangerously — damage your skin.

You already know the most obvious solution: wear sunscreen. But there’s more we can do and more to understand when it comes to sun protection.

Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage: Why We Need to Talk About Sun Safety

Let’s get one thing clear from the start: you absolutely deserve to enjoy the sunshine. This isn’t about fear. It’s about empowerment. It’s about knowing how to soak up the season without sacrificing your skin’s health. 

Because nothing ruins a summer vibe faster than a painful sunburn — or worse, long-term skin damage. … Or even worse than that.

So let’s talk about how to stay sun-kissed, not sun-damaged.

Sun Damage Occurs Over Time

I know it’s tempting to skip the sunscreen just this once. You’re in a hurry. It’s overcast. You “never burn.” You forgot it at home. 

But here’s the truth: over 85% of melanomas are caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. 

They don’t happen in one afternoon at the beach. The effects of the sun are cumulative. Those tiny sunburns, the unprotected days, the times you forgot to reapply. They all add up over time.

Even people with darker skin tones, who are often told they’re “safe” from sun damage, can develop sun-related conditions, including skin cancer. Sun safety is for everyone.

The Science of UV Rays

There are two main types of UV rays we need to protect ourselves from:

• UVA rays are long-wave rays that penetrate deeper into your skin. These are the culprits behind premature aging — wrinkles, sagging and sunspots — and they also damage skin cells in a way that can lead to cancer.
• UVB rays are shorter and more intense. These are the rays that cause sunburn and play a more direct role in skin cancer development.
  

Here’s the kicker: both types can damage the DNA within your skin cells. That means wrinkles today could be a warning of something more serious tomorrow. Too much unprotected skin exposure is a fast track to skin cancer.

So What Can You Do to Protect Your Skin?

You don’t need to hide indoors or dress like a desert nomad. With a few simple shifts, you can stay protected and still enjoy every sun-soaked moment.

1. Sunscreen: Your Non-Negotiable

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 (or higher). Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

• Apply 15–30 minutes before heading out.
• Use at least 1 ounce (about a shot glass) for your whole body.
• Reapply every two hours, and immediately after swimming or sweating.

Pro tip: Don’t forget often-missed spots like your ears, neck, lips, scalp (yes, really), and the tops of your feet.

2. Dress the Part

Clothing is your first defense. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses make a world of difference. There are even fabrics designed specifically to offer UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor).

3. Seek Shade Smartly

Between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., UV rays are at their strongest. If you can, plan your activities earlier or later in the day. Or make use of shade trees, umbrellas or a good sun hat when the sun’s at its peak.

But I Want a Tan!

I get it. Tanned skin might feel like a summer glow-up. But that tan? It’s actually your skin’s distress signal. It’s a sign your DNA has been damaged. 

If you’re craving that bronzy look, opt for a high-quality sunless tanning product. You’ll get the glow without the long-term risk.

Final Thoughts: Love Your Skin Like It Loves You Back

Sunshine is a gift. It’s essential to life, to joy, to mental well-being. 

But just like any gift, it’s best enjoyed wisely. Protecting your skin from the sun isn’t about restriction. It’s about resilience. It’s about ensuring that your body, your health and your beauty last for all the summers still to come.

You can have both: fun in the sun and a future free from unnecessary skin damage. 

So slather that sunscreen. Throw on that hat. It’ll only take a minute or two. And get out there and make some beautiful summer memories — sun-kissed and strong.

If you have questions about skin health, safe sunscreen options or how to build better habits this summer, I’m here for you. Looking to improve your holistic health? Book a free consultation today. We’ll glow smart together! As always, feel free to email me directly at [email protected].