A Summer’s Guide to Successful UV Safety

Pani Shoja, MD, Transcarent Clinic 

With summer at its peak, protecting your skin from Ultraviolet (UV) damage is critical and may not be as straight forward as you think. The damage it can cause may be more than skin deep which is why I’m so passionate about shining a light on this topic for UV Safety Awareness Month. As a physician in the Transcarent Clinic, I regularly help Members with skin concerns that could be a result of excessive UV exposure.¹ From moles to new spots that won’t heal, it’s common for people to use virtual care as a first stop for skin concerns, and I often use this as an opportunity to educate about UV safety.  

 What Is UV Radiation and Why It Matters 

First, it’s important to understand what UV is and what it is not. UV radiation consists of electromagnetic rays emitted from the sun and artificial sources (e.g., tanning beds). There are three types of UV radiation: UVA, UVB, and UVC. The two most common are UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, contributing to long-term damage and premature aging. UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn. Regardless of your environment, UV exposure is everywhere year-round.  

One of the biggest misconceptions is that you must be in direct sunlight to be affected by UV light. That is a myth, the UV light from the sun can still reach your skin and damage it. You can be in the shade and still be burned. It can even penetrate clothing. This is why it is crucial for infants under 6 months of age not to have direct sun exposure, and elderly adults must be cautious of cumulative sun exposure. UV radiation can contribute to skin cancers, accelerate skin damage, cause cataracts, and damage your DNA. Fortunately, there are many proactive measures you can take to protect yourself and your family this summer.

Here are four tips that I often share with our Members:  

1. Wear sunscreen daily   

Another common myth is that sunscreen is only necessary when directly exposed to the sun. Sunscreen should be applied daily, regardless of the weather. UV rays can penetrate car windows, clouds, shade, and even clothing. You don't need to see the sun for UV radiation to affect you, and everyone, regardless of skin tone, needs sunscreen.

2. How to choose the right sunscreen 

Choosing the right sunscreen can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be. It’s helpful to look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and that’s fragrance-free to minimize skin irritation. For children, mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are ideal for use in the sun. Experts recommend avoiding sunscreens containing oxybenzone, as it can harm coral reefs and marine environments.  

Here’s a pro tip that not everyone realizes; most broad-spectrum sunscreens are eligible for reimbursement through HSA/FSA accounts. Check your benefits for what's covered, or Just Ask Transcarent.

3. Safety tips for sun overexposure  

While UV-protective clothing and accessories are vital for safeguarding your skin, accidental overexposure can happen. If you find yourself with too much sun, here are some helpful tips:  

• Seek a shaded area.   

• Stay hydrated and monitor for heat stroke.   

• Use aloe vera or fragrance-free, after-sun lotion generously to soothe sunburn.   

• Refrain from picking at your skin.

• Please seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing severe sunburn, nausea, chills, and blistering.

4. Spotting Melanoma Early: The ABCDE Rule  

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States², and Melanoma is especially dangerous. However, with screening and early detection, the survival rate is 95%.³ 

It is crucial to examine your skin for new moles, growths, or spots that don’t resemble other spots on your body, since there are multiple types of skin cancers. If they do not heal, are consistently bleeding, and do not resemble the rest of your skin, please have them checked out as soon as possible. When performing self-checks, remember the ABCDEs of Melanoma:  

• Asymmetry: One half does not match the other half.  

• Border irregularity: The edges are jagged and rough.  

• Color variation: Any spot that appears blue, black, purple, or yellow.  

• Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters.  

• Evolving: The mole, growth, or spot changes in size, shape, or color.  

It's also important to consider individual risk factors for UV damage, such as fair skin, a history of repetitive sunburn or tanning bed use, any autoimmune disorders, and a family history of melanoma or other skin conditions.  

Annual dermatologist check-ups are crucial for proactive skin health. You can also perform self-checks to monitor for any changes in the skin in the meantime. For concerns about moles or other skin conditions, our Care Team can provide clarification and referrals to dermatologists. Additionally, our ACS LIONS-certified Oncology Nurse Navigators can answer any questions you have about UV exposure, cancer risk, and skin cancer.  

Remember, UV damage affects everyone, so protect your skin, perform self-exams to detect lesions early, and share experiences of melanoma and other skin conditions. These steps are vital for awareness and keeping yourself and your loved ones safe from the sun. 

Sources: 

Transcarent is committed to providing accurate, evidence-based information to help you make informed health decisions. 

1. Internal Data, Transcarent. Member Clinical Observations – Dermatology Visits. Accessed July 23, 2025. 

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Skin Cancer Statistics. Accessed July 23, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/skin-cancer/statistics/index.html 

3. SEER Cancer Statistics. Melanoma of the Skin — Cancer Stat Facts. National Cancer Institute. Accessed July 23, 2025. https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/melan.html 

This article is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek guidance from a physician or qualified provider regarding medical conditions.