in protecting against skin cancer and in fighting the signs of aging. Each year, there are over 1,000,000 new cases of skin cancer in the United States and billions of dollars are spent trying to reverse wrinkles and the other signs of

photoaging.

General adivce: (for more information and answers to frequently asked questions, see our Sun Protection FAQs)

Avoid the sun: this is the only sure way to completely take away the risk of ultraviolet radiation. We know that this is not a realistic option. However, it is important to realize the the sun's ultraviolet rays are at their strongest from approximately 10AM until 2-3PM. Avoiding sun during these times can help to decrease your total ultraviolet exposure.

Wear sun protective clothing: If you are going to be out in the sun, the next step is to cover up and wear clothing that will protect you from harmful ultraviolet radiation. There are several companies that sell clothing with "built in" ultraviolet protection up to a factor of 50! This type of clothing can be found at the following company webites: Sun Safe, Solumbra, Trase, and Coolibar.

In addition to these, Rit Sunguard is a laundry detergent that can be used to give regular clothing and SPF of 30. Rit Sunguard can be found at specialty stores including JoAnn stores and Michaels.

Wear sunscreen: Realistically, people are going to be outside enjoying the sun during the spring and summer months. So, if you're going to be outside when the ultraviolet rays are at their strongest intensity (or any time), it is best to do so while being protected with sunscreen. To learn more about sunscreens, visit our Sun Protection FAQs and/or our section on sunscreen ingredients.

Key ingredients to look for: See our sunscreen section.

Buy products to help protect from the sun