As summer is officially here now it is ever so important that when spending any excessive time out in the sun (like on the shores of a white-sandy beach...) you apply a protective sunscreen to your skin. Severe sunburn and overexposure to the sun's ultra-violet rays (UVA/UVB) has been linked to skin cancer (melanoma) and premature hardening and aging of the skin. So if you plan on being out in the sun for more than just a few minutes, make sure you lather up your skin with sunblock and wear protective clothing, like a hat for the top of your head. Oh yes, it is possible to get sunburn on the top of your head through your hair. Don't ask how I know...

Even when it's overcast like it is here today in Delaware, it's still just as easy to get sunburned if you are outside for an extended period of time. Clouds only block the sun's infrared rays (which is what makes you feel nice and warm when outside on a clear day) they do not block the UV rays and unlike infrared rays, you can't feel the UV rays on your skin. That's what makes it so easy to burn.

Published last week was report by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) out of Washington that put to their test 783 sunscreen products testing them for effectiveness and safety. Some big name brands made the top of their "Avoid Using" list because of the sunblock ingredients in the product not being entirely "photo-stable" which means they will break down easily in direct sunlight exposing you to the harmful UVA and UVB rays while you think you're protected.

You should give the article a read. Many Sunscreens Not What You Think

And you can find the EWG's list of "best" sunscreens here.

The main point is: Protect yourself from the sun. Which ever sunblock you use, read the directions carefully and use it as directed. Make sure it provides protection against BOTH UVA and UVB rays and if you'll be swimming, look for one that's water-resistant. If you don't have a water resistant sunblock and insist on swimming, make sure you reapply every 15-30 minutes.

Other links:

Environmental Working Group (EWG) - http://www.ewg.org/