It's summertime, so of course you're going to spend time at the beach and in the sun. But be careful. Too much can increase your risk for skin cancer. We've got some sun safety tips for you in today's KGMB9 and HMSA's Sunny Side Up.

Featured Tips:

1. Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before heading into the sun to maximize sunscreen effectiveness.

Be sure to apply the sunscreen properly. Always follow the label directions. Most recommend applying sunscreen generously to dry skin 20 to 30 minutes before going outside so your skin has time to absorb the chemicals. When applying it, pay close attention to your face, ears, hands, and arms, and generously coat the skin that is not covered by clothing. If you're going to wear insect repellent or makeup, apply the sunscreen first. For high-glare situations, a higher SPF sunscreen or zinc oxide may be used on your nose and lips.

2. Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during its strongest rays.

Another way to limit exposure to UV light is to avoid being outdoors in sunlight too long. UV rays are most intense during the middle of the day, usually between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. If you are unsure about the sun's intensity, take the shadow test: If your shadow is shorter than you, the sun's rays are the strongest. Plan activities out of the sun during these times. If you must be outdoors, protect your skin.

3. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.

When selecting a sunscreen product, be sure to read the label before you buy. Experts recommend products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. The SPF number represents the level of protection against UVB rays provided by the sunscreen -- a higher number means more protection.

It is important to remember that sunscreen does not give you total protection. When using an SPF 15 and applying it correctly, you get the equivalent of 1 minute of UVB rays for each 15 minutes you spend in the sun. So, 1 hour in the sun wearing SPF 15 sunscreen is the same as spending 4 minutes totally unprotected.

The SPF number indicates protection against UVB rays only. Sunscreen products labeled "broad-spectrum" protect against UVA and UVB radiation, but at this time there is no standard system for measuring protection from UVA rays. Products with an SPF of 15 or higher that also contain avobenzone (Parsol 1789), ecamsule, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide are likely to be effective against UVB and most UVA rays.

4. Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors, even on cloudy days.

Be generous. About 1 ounce of sunscreen (a "palmful") should be used to cover the arms, legs, neck, and face of the average adult. For best results, most sunscreens must be reapplied at least every 2 hours and even more often if you are swimming or sweating. Products labeled "waterproof" may provide protection for at least 80 minutes even when you are swimming or sweating. Products that are "water resistant" may provide protection for only 40 minutes. Remember that sunscreen usually rubs off when you towel yourself dry, so you will need to reapply.

UV rays reach the ground throughout the year, even on cloudy days. UV rays can also pass through water, so don't think you're safe if you're in the water and feeling cool. Be especially careful on the beach and in the snow because sand and snow reflect sunlight, increasing the amount of UV radiation you receive.

More tips:

• Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeve shirt and pants.
• Wear a 4-inch-wide, broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Stay in the shade whenever possible.
• Avoid surfaces that can reflect up to 85 percent of the sun's damaging rays.
• Protect children by keeping them out of the sun or minimizing sun exposure and applying sunscreens starting at 6 months of age.

If you are interested in reading more about the ACS guidelines, click here.

The American Cancer Society's Relay for Life event is happening Saturday, July 12 at Magic Island from 7 pm to 7 am on Sunday. For more information:  http://www.acsrelay.org/States-Hawaii.php

American Cancer Society, Hawaii Chapter Information: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/COM/content/div_TX/COM_11_2x_Hawaii-n_Overview_of_Your_American_Cancer_Society.asp?sitearea=COM

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