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UV Safety Month in Central Florida

July 22, 2025

July marks UV Safety Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating people about the risks of excessive ultraviolet exposure and the importance of sun safety practices. With our area’s consistently high UV index, sun protection becomes even more critical during the summer months. This year let’s observe the significance of UV safety in Central Florida by adopting practices to keep your skin safe under the Florida sun.

While the ozone layer in the Earth's atmosphere shields us from much of the harmful UV radiation, UVA and UVB still penetrate through the environmental shield. These rays can cause sunburn, skin damage, and other serious health issues, especially for individuals who spend extended time outdoors. So, UV radiation emitted across a broad spectrum of wavelengths plays a significant role in public health discussions, especially during UV Safety Awareness Month.

According to the EPA, UV rays are at their peak during the summer months in the Northern Hemisphere due to the sun's higher position in the sky. This results in more direct and intense exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which is classified by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences as a known carcinogen. Immediate effects, such as blistering sunburns, are only the beginning, as prolonged exposure increases the risk of skin cancer, cataracts, immune suppression, and premature skin aging.

“Adopting sun safety strategies, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when possible are key to reducing each individual’s personal risk of skin cancer,” says Dr. Michael Steppie, Orlando Mohs surgeon and medical director of Associates in Dermatology. “Safeguarding your health against the harmful impacts of ultraviolet radiation is highly important year round, but most people in Central Florida do tend to spend extra time outdoors this time of year and overexposure to UV radiation can be damaging and dangerous.”

How to get a safe tan...

Whether from the sun or indoor tanning beds, tanning is never "safe" or "healthy." Both natural sunlight and tanning devices emit ultraviolet radiation, and both damage the DNA in skin cells and significantly increases the risk of skin cancer, especially melanoma. While the perceived glow of a tan may seem appealing, it’s actually a sign of cellular damage beneath the surface, and myths like a “base tan provides protection” only perpetuate harmful practices.

Starting tanning at a young age heightens the risk even further and the danger is especially amplified during summer months when UV radiation is as its peak. Beyond skin cancer, excessive tanning can lead to premature aging, immune suppression, and even addictive tendencies due to the release of endorphins during sun exposure. Don't trade long-term health for a fleeting tan and protect your health by prioritizing sun safety to minimize your risks.

Tips for Staying Safe in the Sun

July is recognized as UV Safety Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of protecting skin and eyes from harmful radiation. After all, most Americans love the sun and spend much more time outside while working, playing and exercising during the warmer months. In turn, July is also highlighted as Extreme Heat Safety Month due to the dangers of heat-related illnesses. Although many are aware that too much sun has been linked to skin cancer, few know the degree of risk posed by overexposure, so stay safe in the sun this summer by doing these things:

Check the UV Index: The UV Index Numbers are a valuable resource for planning outdoor activities to minimize the risk of sun damage. Created by the National Weather Service and EPA, it provides daily nationwide updates on the sun’s UV intensity to help you stay protected. Seasonal shifts also affect UVB intensity, with summer months seeing the strongest radiation. UV levels are highest around midday, as the sun’s rays take the shortest path through the atmosphere. Early mornings and late afternoons bring reduced UV intensity because the rays travel a longer distance. So, protect yourself with safe sun practices, especially during peak UV hours.
Sunscreen: Sunscreen is your skin’s best defense against UV damage and skin cancer. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential for protecting against both UVA’s aging rays and UVB’s burning rays. To maximize its effectiveness, apply sunscreen liberally 15-30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours. While concerns persist about certain sunscreen ingredients, the benefits of sunscreen in preventing skin cancer far outweigh the risks. Choose a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen and make it a staple in your daily routine to keep your skin well protected by reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Shade: One of the simplest, yet most effective, ways to reduce UV exposure is by seeking shade. Deep shade, such as that provided by dense trees or well-constructed structures, can block 50% to 95% of sun’s ultraviolet radiation, depending on the type and density of the shade. For individuals with sensitive skin that burns easily or has experienced the discomforts of previous sunburns, these measures are even more crucial. Nonetheless, shade alone isn’t enough for comprehensive sun safety throughout the summer months. So to better protect your skin, adopt a combination of UV safety strategies.
Sun Protective Clothing: One of the simplest ways to shield your skin from harmful UV rays is by wearing protective clothing but opt for lightweight, light-colored clothing that fully covers your arms and legs. For the ultimate defense, look for fabrics with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. These specially designed garments provide extra protection by blocking a significant amount of UV radiation. Moreover, don’t forget about proper eye protection with sunglasses that block 99% of UVA and UVB rays. UV-related conditions like cataracts, tissue growth and macular degeneration can severely impair vision and require long-term care.
Reflective Surfaces: Reflective surfaces can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer by amplifying exposure to ultraviolet radiation. So, be cautious when near water and sand as these surfaces do increase the risk of sunburn. Unfortunately, many people underestimate the impact of reflected rays, particularly on days that are not overtly sunny. Dry sand reflects approximately 15% to 18% of actual UV radiation, and water reflects between 5% to 7% of UV radiation. Concrete and other manmade surfaces can also reflect measurable amounts of ultraviolet radiation. Plus, depending on thickness of cloud cover, it is possible to burn on cloudy days.
Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds are a major risk to your skin’s health due to the harmful UV they emit. In fact, these artificial sources of ultraviolet radiation can be even more dangerous than natural sunlight. The intense radiation damage the DNA in skin cells and significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Recent studies suggest that using tanning beds before age 20 dramatically elevates the chances of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Additionally, prolonged exposure leads to premature skin aging, including wrinkling, which may not become apparent until much later in life.
Regular Skin Checks: Routine skin exams are crucial for maintaining the healthy skin by detecting potential issues early. Scheduling routine screenings with a dermatologist, particularly if you have a family history of skin cancer or notice any changes in your moles or skin, can make a significant difference, as early detection dramatically improves treatment success rates. Additionally, taking proactive steps, such as knowing your family history and performing frequent self-exams, can help identify concerns sooner. Remaining vigilant during the summer months can be vital for your family’s long-term well-being.

While having risk factors of skin cancer may increase your likelihood of developing pre-cancers, it doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to get it. However, vigilance is key and protecting your skin from overexposure is vital. People with a history of blistering childhood sunburns, numerous moles, or those who spend significant time outdoors should be especially cautious. Since early detection improves treatment success rates, routine screenings or free local health events can be invaluable preventive measures.

Skin Cancer Factors Besides UV Radiation

Ultraviolet radiation from sun exposure and artificial sources, such as tanning beds, is the leading cause of most skin cancers. However, other factors can also play a significant role in increasing risk of skin disease. Genetic predisposition, a weakened immune system, exposure to hazardous chemicals or radiation, and certain lifestyle choices like smoking can all contribute to the likelihood of developing skin cancer. Understanding these risk factors is essential for adopting preventative measures and making informed decisions about your health.

These can include:

Family History – A family history of skin cancer can significantly increase your risk due to a combination of genetic predispositions and shared environmental factors. Families with lighter skin tones and higher sun sensitivity might not only inherit gene mutations linked to melanoma but may also share habits that increase sun exposure.
Skin Tone – Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, affecting individuals across all skin tones, though the risk varies significantly depending on pigmentation. According to the CDC, fair-skinned folks are more susceptible to skin cancer. So, protecting yourself from UV exposure is critical in reducing risks no matter what your Fitzpatrick Scale skin color.
Multiple or Atypical Moles – Having a lot of moles, especially atypical moles (known as dysplastic nevi), can significantly increase your risk of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. Unusual lumps, bumps, or sores that don’t heal, bleed, or ooze for several weeks should be examined, so pay attention to new spots or alterations in size, shape, color, or texture.
Medications, Radiation & Chemicals – Common medications can increase photosensitivity, making your skin more vulnerable to UV damage. Examples of such medications include tetracyclines, thiazide diuretics, sulfonamides, and NSAIDs. If you take any of these, practice sun-safe habits, such as applying sunscreen, seeking shade and wearing protective clothing.
Weakened Immune System – Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, or those taking immunosuppressive medications, face a higher risk of developing more serious skin conditions. To mitigate these risks, individuals should adopt sun-safe habits and perform self-exams to detect changes early.
Smoking – Smoking has a complex relationship with skin cancer. Studies have shown that smokers are more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma, while potentially lowering the risk of basal cell carcinoma in certain cases; but smoking increases overall health risk. Plus, smokers may have a shorter melanoma-specific survival rate as it hinders healing.

“Although it is important to note that UV exposure is a dominant factor in skin health,” adds Dr. Steppie, “skin cancers are often related to a combination of risk factors like age, genetics and overall immune health, which means it’s important to consult with a dermatology provider about any new or changing skin lesions. After all, early detection can be critical for effective treatment.” Regular skin exams and sun-safe practices are important for everyone, but especially those with increased risk of skin damage or disease.

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Given that sun exposure remains one of the largest risk factors across all demographics, maintaining UV safety habits, such as regular use of sunscreen and protective clothing, is essential for everyone, especially those with a familial history of skin cancer. Proactive skin checks at home and regular exams with a dermatologist are the most effective steps toward early detection and treatment for UV-related skin disorders. Since early detection can be crucial for the successful treatment of sun-damaged skin, make your appointment online or call 800-827-7546 to schedule an exam with a dermatologist at one of our sixteen Central Florida offices in Orlando, Altamonte Springs, Apopka, Celebration, Clermont, Davenport, Dr. Philips, Hunter's Creek, Kissimmee, Mount Dora, Ocoee, Poinciana, Sanford, or St. Cloud.

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