UV 101

Summer sunshine might feel great on your skin, but it can also cause damage you don’t see right away. Whether you're heading to the beach, working outdoors, or just running errands, understanding UV safety is key to protecting your skin and overall health.

What Are UV Rays?

Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a form of radiation from the sun. They’re invisible to the eye but can cause sunburn, skin aging, eye damage, and increase the risk of skin cancer.

There are two main types of UV rays that reach the Earth:

• UVA (320–400 nm): Penetrates deep into the skin and contributes to aging and long-term damage.

• UVB (290–320 nm): Affects the skin’s surface and is the primary cause of sunburns.

The UV Index (on a scale of 0 to 11+) tells you how strong the sun’s rays are on a given day. The higher the number, the greater the risk of harm. Here's a general breakdown:

UV Index Risk Levels:

• 0–2 (Low):
  Minimal risk. Safe for most people, but sensitive individuals may still want light protection (e.g., sunglasses).

• 3–5 (Moderate):
  Sun damage can begin. It’s recommended to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses—especially during midday hours.

• 6–7 (High):
  High risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Protection is essential: sunscreen (SPF 30+), shade, and protective clothing are strongly advised.

• 8–10 (Very High):
  Very high risk. Unprotected skin can burn in as little as 15–25 minutes. Full sun protection is needed.

• 11+ (Extreme):
  Extreme risk. Skin damage can occur in less than 10 minutes. Avoid sun exposure during peak hours and take full precautions.

Bottom line:
Sun damage can start at UV Index 3, especially with prolonged exposure. Always check your local UV Index forecast and plan accordingly to protect your skin and eyes.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
   Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply every 2 hours—or more often if swimming or sweating.

2. Wear Protective Clothing
   Lightweight long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses can offer powerful protection.

3. Seek Shade
   Avoid direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are at their strongest.

4. Check the UV Index Daily
   Use weather apps or the EPA’s UV Index tool to plan your day and know when to take extra precautions.

5. Don't Skip Cloudy Days
   Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, so protection is still important even when the sun isn’t visible.

Practicing UV safety doesn’t mean avoiding the sun altogether—it just means being smart about how you protect your skin. A few simple habits can make a big difference in preventing long-term damage and keeping your skin healthy year-round.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you have concerns about sun exposure, skin changes, or sunscreen use, consult a licensed medical provider or dermatologist.

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Regardless of what type of medical situation you may be facing, Community First ER is here to help. There’s no need to make an appointment, and you won’t have to wait. Our board-certified physicians and nurses will always be ready to see you. We understand that emergencies aren’t always convenient, which is why we do everything we can to make your experience with us as hassle-free as possible. From the moment you arrive at Community First ER to the moment you leave us our compassionate and knowledgeable staff will take care of you or your family member appropriately. If your condition warrants transportation to a local hospital, we can easily arrange this using our ambulance and helipad services. Our 9,000 square foot facility includes an onsite lab, radiology, and imaging services and is equipped to provide adult, pediatric, and adolescent emergency and critical care. We strive to provide the most effective and most efficient medical care in a stress-free and comfortable environment. 

We are here to help  

At Community First ER, we are committed to providing you the best possible care now and always. With adult and pediatric emergency care available, we have a team of board-certified medical and surgical specialists we consult to help manage our patients and their medical emergencies. We form relationships with local doctors to ensure that our patients have access to the best specialists for their individual needs. You can call ahead and discuss your symptoms at any time.  

We are Community First Emergency Room – committed to putting your community, health, and YOU FIRST, every day.

If you are a loved one experiencing an urgent or emergency medical issue, please contact us right away at 281-343-3134. 

About Community First ER 

Emergency health care is a critical resource. Our commitment is to provide a personal, transparent, and concierge-driven emergency health care experience to our community members. Locally owned and operated by health care providers and partners we trust, we strive to support and create meaningful relationships with those around us. We exist to put your health and wellness first. For more information, visit our website at https://communityfirster.com/ and engage with us on social media!