Shielding Your Loved Ones: The Importance of Sun Safety and Life Insurance This Summer

FAQs: Sun Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

The sun gives you vitamin D. Why is it so bad for your skin?

It’s true, the sun does give us vitamin D—but it also sends dangerous UV rays. The sun can cause damage to your body, like sunburn, which can lead to skin cancer later in life. “Having five plus sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma.” [2]  

Do I have to wear sunscreen every time I go out in the sun?

Yes, sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher can be a must, even on cloudy days. Don’t forget spots like ears, neck, and the tops of feet! 

What are other ways I can protect myself?

Wearing protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, and staying in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., helps minimize exposure to harmful UV rays. Heat exhaustion and dehydration are real dangers, especially for babies, kids, older adults, and pets. Keep cool by wearing loose clothing, drinking water all day, and taking breaks in the shade.  Also, never leave children or pets in cars.

What about tanning beds?

Tanning beds are not safe either. They increase your risk of cancer, especially malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. 

Does every skin type need to be protected? 

Yes, sun safety and sunscreen are needed for everyone, regardless of skin type or color. While melanin may offer some protection, it is not enough to stay protected. The American Academy of Dermatology shares that only 12% of Black Americans and 29% of Hispanic Americans, along with 60% of White Americans, report using sunscreen. [3] However, sunscreen use should be higher for all skin types. Sun safety and protection are important for everyone to avoid diagnoses like melanoma at larger stages in life.

Protecting What Matters Most

Just like sunscreen protects your body, life insurance protects your family’s future. A serious illness, like skin cancer, can change everything. Kemper Life cancer insurance may help your loved ones stay secure if something happens to you. 

Contact your local Kemper Life agent to learn more.  A local agent will come to your home and help you choose a plan that fits your needs and budget. They’ll answer all your questions and help you feel confident about protecting your future, so you can enjoy your days in the sun with peace of mind. 

 Sources:

[1]  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/

[2]  Skin Cancer Foundation, https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts/

[3] American Academy of Dermatology, https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(21)00316-9/pdf