06/30/2025 by Kristen Evon
Summer in Arizona means beautiful blue skies, sunny days, and plenty of time spent outdoors. But with all that sunshine, it’s important to remember that protecting your skin against dangerous UV rays is a key step in keeping your skin healthy and happy.
Arizona ranks among the sunniest states in the country, with some areas getting more than 300 days of sunshine a year. While that’s great for hiking, biking, and backyard barbecues, it also means we face a higher risk of sun-related skin damage and skin cancer.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 4.3 million adults are treated for basal and squamous cell skin cancers each year. Melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer, is also on the rise. In Arizona, melanoma rates are significantly higher than the national average, especially among adults over the age of 50.
Too much sun exposure without adequate sun protection can lead to:
Keep in mind that the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are strongest between the hours of 10 and 4, and they’re more intense at higher altitudes, like those in many parts of northern Arizona. If you’re going to be outside, you definitely want to make sure you’re protecting yourself.
The good news is, protecting your skin isn’t very complicated. A few smart habits can reduce your risk and keep your skin healthy all year round.
Use Sunscreen Every Day – Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and hands, even on cloudy days. Make sure you’re reapplying every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. Don’t forget your lips! Use a lip balm with SPF and reapply that often, too.
Cover Up With Clothing – Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats can offer excellent protection. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics designed for sun protection. Some clothing brands even list their UV protection factor (UPF) on the label.
Seek Shade – When the sun is high in the sky, try to find shady areas to sit or stand. Trees, umbrellas, and overhangs offer great protection during peak hours. If you’re spending time at the park or watching a game, try to sit in a shaded area if you can!
Wear Sunglasses – Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. UV exposure can lead to cataracts and other types of eye damage over time.
Avoid Tanning Beds – Most people are aware of the risks associated with tanning beds. They expose your skin to concentrated UV radiation, increasing your risk of skin cancer.
Be Extra Careful Near Water, Sand, and Snow – These types of surfaces reflect UV rays and increase your sun exposure. If you are going to be in these environments, make sure to reapply sunscreen often or cover up with clothing.
Regular self-checks can help you spot skin changes early. You want to look for:
If you notice anything unusual, request an appointment with your primary care provider. Early detection is the number one key to successful treatment.
Kids spend a lot of time outdoors, and their skin is especially sensitive to sun damage. Did you know that just a few blistering sunburns in childhood can double a person’s risk of developing melanoma later in life? It’s scary to think about, but again, prevention is key!
To protect your child:
Protecting your skin doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all summer. It just means that you need to take a few extra simple steps to keep yourself safe. North Country HealthCare’s providers are happy to help you choose the right sun safety strategies for your family.
We offer primary care and preventive screenings in communities across northern Arizona. If you don’t have insurance, no worries. We offer a sliding fee scale based on your income. We also accept AHCCCS, Medicare, and most private insurance plans.
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North Country HealthCare has been recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in 11 northern Arizona communities.
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