Baptist Doctors: Protect Your Skin From Summer Sun

Baptist Primary Care physicians are urging Jacksonville residents to take precautions against the sun's harmful rays as summer approaches.

"Over time, cumulative sun damage leads to premature aging and increases the risk of skin cancer," said Dr. Rachel Johnson, a family medicine physician with Baptist Primary Care. "Taking simple steps to protect your skin makes a big difference in your long-term health."

Baptist Primary Care recommends these steps:

Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Apply at least 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.

Seek shade during peak hours. The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Wear protective clothing. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats offer the best protection, especially in dark colors and tightly woven fabrics.

Check the UV index. Review daily forecasts before heading outdoors and take extra precautions on high UV days.

Baptist Primary Care operates locations throughout Northeast Florida.