The Friday before Memorial Day is recognized as National Don’t Fry Day to raise awareness about the importance of protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays—a major contributor to skin cancer and the most diagnosed cancer in the United States.

What is Sunburn?

Sunburn is an inflammation of the skin in response to UV radiation from the sun. Sunburns can range from mild pink, warm skin to blistering and dark red, but every sunburn is a sign of injury to the skin and should be taken seriously.

Skin Cancer: A Preventable Epidemic

Over 5 million cases of skin cancer are treated in the United States each year, meaning 1 in 5 American wills develop skin cancer during their life. Skin cancer can affect anyone—regardless of skin tone, age, or time of year. The good news is most cases are preventable by practicing consistent sun-safe habits.

Sun safety should begin early; children are especially vulnerable to UV damage. Teaching them how to protect their skin from an early age can set the tone for a lifetime of healthy choices.

Smart Sun Habits

Sun exposure is not just a sunny day concern—even on cloudy days or during the winter months UV rays can damage your skin.

Here are some simple  sun safety practices to protect your skin:

• Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and reapplying every two hours or after swimming.
• Wearing protective clothing, including long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
• Sit in the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
• Avoid tanning beds, which produce dangerous UV radiation.
• Check your local UV index, which forecasts daily risk levels for UV exposure.

Sunburn First Aid

If you experience sunburn, move into the shade immediately, soothe your skin with a cool compress or water, and apply a gentle moisturizer. Make sure to stay hydrated with water and electrolytes, like sports drinks. If you begin developing a fever, chills, or feel woozy seek medical attention.

Protect Your Skin Every Day, All Year Long

Before you enjoy your day at the beach or your family barbecue this Memorial Day—and every day after—take a moment to protect your skin. Applying sunscreen and checking the local UV index every day are simple, but effective ways to prevent sunburn and lower your risk of developing skin cancer.

Your future self will thank you—for the glow, the protection, and the peace of mind.

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- Written by Monica Weikel