Stay safe from ultraviolet rays this summer

What are ultraviolet rays? They sound scary and can be if you don't take proper precautions. Ultraviolet rays are electromagnetic radiation waves from the sun. These rays can cause sunburns, a weakened immune system, or even skin cancer of our skin, eyes, and mouth. July is ultraviolet safety month. Here at CareNow Urgent Care, we see sunburn patients and can refer them to dermatologists for skin cancer.

As a reminder, as the high heat of summer comes our way, please remember that you play a crucial role in protecting yourself and your little ones from the dangers of ultraviolet rays. Here's how:

• Choosing the right sunscreen. The American Dermatology Association recommends using sunscreen with sun factor protection (SPF) of 30 or higher and covering both UV-a and UV-b rays.
• Covering up. If you are out in the sun and do not have sunscreen, try wearing a light, long-sleeve shirt, hat, and sunglasses to protect you from the harmful rays.
• Stay in the shade. The sun's rays are most intense from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staying inside or in the shade during this time will also help protect your skin.

It is summertime, and we all want to have fun. Sometimes, we forget to regularly apply sunscreen or spend too much time in the sun. When you get a painful or blistering sunburn, remember that CareNow Urgent Care is here to provide relief! See us at CareNow for the care you need at a location near you. Take advantage of our free online check-in at Carenow.com.