Even on cloudy days, approximately 80% of the sun’s rays reach the earth. It is very important for us to know our options when it comes to sunscreen.

It is up to us to decide how we will protect ourselves from the sun. The best protection comes in using a combination of wearing a hat, protective sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, and limiting time of sun exposure. Taking antioxidants is also a necessary weapon against sun damage.

Wear a hat with a wide brim to cover your ears and the back of your neck. Long sleeved blouses and shirts help to avoid sun exposure, and some clothing now has built-in SPF protection. Make sure to wear your sunglasses because besides the skin, eyes are the second most common sites of Melanoma.

It is important to remember that certain medications cause sun sensitivity, and extra caution should be used with sun exposure.

Tanning beds should be avoided. Tanning beds emit UVA rays, which are very damaging to the skin and eyes.

Next week: How to choose a sunscreen