The Fourth of July is a day of celebration — but don't let the celebrating get out of hand. Too much sun and too much alcohol are among the excesses that can dampen your fun. Use these tips to celebrate safely this Independence Day.
1. Keep your skin safe
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, ultraviolet radiation is the No.1 cause of skin cancer. Lower your chances of painful burns as well as skin cancer by following these guidelines:
• Avoid direct sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and stay in the shade when possible.
• Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats that shade your neck and ears as well as your face. "Protecting the scalp is especially important for people with fair or thinning hair, " says Dr. Jason Medicine, a family practice physician at Baylor Medical Center.
• Protect your eyes with sunglasses, preferably wraparound, that have broad UV protection which absorbs at least 99 percent of UV rays.
• Use a sunscreen with at least a 30 SPF, and apply it at least 15 minutes before going into the water. Reapply after swimming or sweating.
