☀️ UV Protection and Awareness: What You Need to Know This Summer
As we enjoy the sunshine here in Connecticut, it’s important to stay mindful of UV safety. Whether you’re relaxing by the shoreline, attending summer camp, or running errands, protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can help prevent skin cancer, premature aging, and other sun-related conditions.
Why UV Safety Matters
UV radiation is a major cause of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. It also accelerates skin aging, contributing to wrinkles, sunspots, and uneven tone. At Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut, we encourage patients to prioritize sun protection—especially during the summer months when UV exposure peaks.
Simple Ways to Protect Your Skin from UV Rays
🧴 Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Choose a sunscreen labeled “broad-spectrum” with SPF 30 or higher. Apply it generously to all exposed areas and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
👒 Wear Protective Clothing
Opt for long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses for extra coverage, particularly during midday hours.
🌳 Seek Shade
Avoid direct sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest. Stick to shaded areas whenever possible.
🚫 Avoid Tanning Beds
Tanning beds emit concentrated UV radiation and significantly increase your risk of skin cancer. There’s no such thing as a “safe tan.”
🧪 Don’t Skip Your Annual Skin Exam
Routine skin checks by a board-certified dermatologist can catch issues early—when they’re most treatable. As we age, our skin becomes more susceptible to UV damage, making regular exams essential.
If you notice any new or changing moles, freckles, or spots, don’t wait—schedule a dermatology appointment. Our team is here to help protect your skin at every stage of life.
Top 5 Sunscreen Myths—Debunked
MYTH 1: Darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen.
Fact: All skin tones are vulnerable to sun damage and skin cancer. Daily sunscreen use is essential for everyone.
MYTH 2: Sunscreen is only necessary on sunny days.
Fact: UV rays penetrate clouds. Apply sunscreen even on overcast days.
MYTH 3: Higher SPF means all-day protection.
Fact: No sunscreen lasts all day. Reapply every 2 hours and combine with other sun-protective behaviors.
MYTH 4: Sunscreen is waterproof.
Fact: No sunscreen is truly waterproof. Always reapply after swimming or sweating.
MYTH 5: One application is enough.
Fact: Sunscreen wears off throughout the day. Reapply frequently for continued protection.
📍 Stay Skin-Safe with Help from Connecticut Dermatologists
If you live in Fairfield, Westport, Shelton, Norwalk, New Haven, or surrounding areas, our expert dermatology team is here to help you protect your skin all summer long.
📅 Time for Your Annual Skin Check?
Book an appointment with Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut today—online or by phone. Early detection and prevention are key to lifelong skin health.
📍 Find us in Branford, Farfield, Hamden, New Haven, New London, Norwalk, Oxford, Shelton, Stamford, and Woodbridge
🧴 Stock up on dermatologist-recommended sunscreen while you’re at it – click here to purchase our recommended sunscreens
📅 Schedule your annual skin check today
Convenient Locations Across Connecticut:
📍 Branford
📍 Fairfield
📍 Hamden
📍 New Haven
📍 New London
📍 Norwalk
📍 Oxford
📍 Shelton
📍 Stamford
📅 Book an appointment online or give our office a call at 203-538-5682 to schedule an appointment at a location near you!