As you spend your weekend attending your favorite outdoor festival, it’s important to remember to protect your skin from too much sun exposure.

5 facts to consider about sun exposure and skin cancer:

1. Having as few as 5 sunburns in your lifetime doubles your risk of melanoma.
2. Melanoma is responsible for most skin cancer-related deaths; one American dies of melanoma every hour.
3. Skin cancer affects any area of the body, but is more common on sun-exposed locations, such as the face, ears and hands.
4. A “base tan” does not protect you from sunburn or sun damage, but actually increases your risk of skin cancer.
5. Eyes are susceptible to the damaging effects of the sun; cataracts can be caused by sun exposure.

3 of the most common mistakes people make when using sunscreen are:

1. Not applying enough sunscreen
2. Not reapplying sunscreen
3. Avoiding exposed, but sensitive areas, such as the lips or ears.

6 tips to protect your skin and avoid sunburn:

1. Choose a sunscreen that offers the following: broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB protection), SPF 30 or greater, and water resistance
2. Seek shade! The sun’s rays are strongest between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
3. Apply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before swimming; make sure to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors.
4. Use protective barriers, such as sun-protective clothing and wide-brim hats. Long-sleeve fishing shirts, rash guards and pants are great options for long, sun-filled days.
5. Wear sunglasses with both UVA and UVB protection.
6. Remember, clouds and water DO NOT protect against the sun’s rays. Clouds only block up to 20% of UV rays. UV effects are magnified when reflected off of snow, sand and water.

4 picks to protect yourself this summer:

• Elta MD UV Pure SPF 47
• Neutrogena Pure and Free Baby SPF 60
• Blue Lizard Sensitive Skin SPF 30
• Vanicream Lip Protectant SPF 30