July marks UV Safety Awareness Month, a timely reminder to protect your skin during the sunniest stretch of the year. Whether you’re heading to the beach, out for a hike, or simply spending time outdoors, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can be harmful—even when you least expect it.
To help you stay protected, Supriya Muppala, DO ’28, president of PCOM’s Dermatology Club—shares tips for reducing the risk of sun damage and skin cancer.
“Sun protection isn’t just about avoiding a burn—it’s about taking everyday steps to protect your skin long-term,” said Muppala. “We hope these tips empower people to be proactive about their skin health, especially during the summer months when UV exposure is at its peak.”
UV rays come in three types—UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA rays penetrate deepest into the skin and can contribute to skin aging and cancer. UVB rays cause sunburns and can also play a role in cancer development. UVC, fortunately, is mostly absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere. To cover all your bases, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Think you're using enough sunscreen? Think again. Most people apply only 25–50% of what they should. Dermatologists recommend a shot glass–sized portion (1 ounce) to fully protect your body. When in doubt, apply more.
Eyelids, ears, the back of your neck, and your scalp are common areas people miss when applying sunscreen but they are just as vulnerable. If the sun can reach it, sunscreen it!
Cloudy skies don’t mean you’re safe from the sun. In fact, up to 80% of UV rays can still reach your skin, even on overcast days. Make sunscreen part of your daily routine, no matter the weather.
Sunscreen has a shelf life. The FDA requires that sunscreens maintain their full strength for at least three years, but after that, it’s anyone’s guess. If you’re unsure how old your sunscreen is—or if it has an odor—toss it and restock.
Sunscreen should not be a one-and-done step in your routine. Be sure to reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Consistent reapplication is key to full-day protection.
Think of clothing as your first line of defense. Look for garments labeled with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor)—UPF 50+ clothing blocks roughly 98% of UV rays. For the best coverage, pair protective clothing with sunscreen.
Protecting yourself from UV exposure is an essential part of self-care. Prolonged or repeated sun damage doesn’t just affect your appearance—it can contribute to premature aging, immune suppression, and increase your risk for various skin cancers and other health issues over time.
Established in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and school psychology. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
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Email: allywe@pcom.edu
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