As the days grow longer and outside activities increase, reminders about how you can protect your skin from strong summer sun increase. In recent years we have learned a lot more about the dangers that result from overexposure to the sun. Because of this increased knowledge, many people are more savvy as to the do's and don'ts associated with skin protection. Here we take a look at some common and not so common tips to ensure your skin is less vulnerable to the dangers of summer sun.

Don't skimp on the sunscreen

This is the first and foremost step in protecting yourself from the damaging rays of the sun. Adults and children should always use sunscreen before going outside, even on overcast days. Use a sunscreen with a high SPF and remember to reapply (every two hours) throughout the day for maximum protection. It is also important to remember not all sun exposure occurs when you're outdoors. Apply sunscreen before driving or riding in a vehicle as UVA rays can pass through glass — even those that filter out UVB rays which cause sunburn. Just because your skin is not "burned" doesn't mean it is protected from cancer-causing rays.

Do pay attention to peak hours

Peak sun hours in the summer can be anytime between 10 a.m and 4 p.m. These are the hours when you must pay extra close attention to skin protection. Whenever possible, avoiding sun exposure during these hours is advisable. However, that is not always an option with increased outdoor activities during summer months. For this reason, you must step up your skin protection strategy during these hours to stay safe in the sun.

Do wear sunglasses and hats

Your skin is not the only part of your body that can be damaged from exposure to the sun on hot summer days. Sunglasses protect and shield your eyes on the bright days of summer, while wearing a brimmed hat shades your face, ears and neck which can be particularly vulnerable to sunburn.

Do skip the lip gloss during the day

Shiny lips are perfect for the fun days of summer, however lip gloss that does not contain SPF can draw the suns rays to your mouth, which is often overlooked in the skin protection regime. Instead, consider using a lip balm that or gloss that contains SPF for added protection.

Do seek out the shade

The best way to avoid sun exposure is by seeking out the shade. While shaded areas reduce exposure to the sun's harmful rays, it is not a replacement for wearing sunscreen. Sun rays can be reflected off of various sources, making it impossible to totally eliminate exposure.

Don't use tanning beds

In some instances, tanning beds can actually have stronger UVA and UVB radiation than that produced naturally from the sun. Exposure to UVA and UVB rays whether naturally or via tanning beds can result in sunburn and the deeper penetrating damage that causes skin cancer.

While many people enjoy a good "tan" and the health benefits from vitamin D found in the sun's rays, the evidence linking unprotected exposure to the sun and skin cancer cannot be disputed. The most common form of cancer in the United States, skin cancer accounts for more cancer diagnoses each year than that of all other cancers combined. Skin cancer is also one of the most highly preventable forms of cancer.

This post was included in latest edition of The Homesteading Carnival.