To remind people to protect themselves from UV rays this summer, the American Cancer Society (ACS) is holding an awareness campaign based around the slogan Slip, Slop, Slap® and Wrap. Here is how you can take part to keep your family safe.
Slip
Slip on a shirt
At the beach, slip on a dry skirt, instead of sunbathing, to protect yourself from UV rays. Wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible — long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and long skirts — and opt for tight weaves in dark colors over loosely woven fabric in light colors. You can find higher protection by looking for clothing listed as having a UV protective factor (UPF), or you can add a product to your laundry to increase the UPF of all your clothes.
Slop
Slop on sunscreen
It is important to note that an SPF value refers to the level of protection, not how long sunscreen lasts, points out Dr. Len of ACS. Use a generous amount of sunscreen on all your exposed skin and regularly reapply the product throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating.
Slap
Slap on a hat
The best way to protect some of your most sensitive skin from the sun is with a hat featuring a wide brim — at least 2 to 3 inches all around. Alternatively, slap on a baseball cap with a large handkerchief or bandana tucked underneath to cover your neck and ears, suggests AMC. Either option will shield your ears, nose, scalp, forehead, and eyes from intense rays including sunlight bouncing of reflective surfaces like the ocean.
Wrap
Wrap on sunglasses to protect the eyes and skin around them
Sunglasses must block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays, or up to 400 mn. Avoid shades that advertise a cosmetic block (as they only absorb around 70 percent) and those that have no label at all — the likelihood is that they offer no UV protection.
If your kids don’t have a favorite pair of Real Kids shades yet, check out our collection of designer kids sunglasses to find a pair.