Sunlight can penetrate unprotected skin, causing damage to DNA, the genetic chromosomal component of skin cells. UVB radiation is more intense in the summer months and is responsible for sunburn, premature aging and skin cancer. UVA radiation remains constant throughout the year, penetrates more deeply and causes premature aging of the skin as well as skin cancer. Follow these tips for everyday skin protection to decrease your personal risk of sun damage and skin cancer:

• Apply a broad–spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes prior to exposure; reapply every two hours.
  
• Use at least one ounce for the entire body, and don't forget your lips, ears, neck and hands.
  
• The SPF, or sun protection factor, rating only indicates UVB protection. An SPF of 15 blocks 93 percent of UVB radiation, one of SPF 30 blocks 97 percent. New regulations for UVA protection and product labeling are expected shortly.
  
• Discard old or expired sunscreen.
  
• Avoid the sun's strongest rays–between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  
• Cover up with protective clothing, including a wide–brim hat. Special
  
• ;protective clothing is currently available. So is a new chemical additive: when placed in your washing machine, it will increase your regular clothing's SPF as well.
  
• Remember, sunscreen use is only a part of a complete protection program.
  
• Self–examine your skin for changing moles or new spots, then alert your doctor.
  

Staying aware of the danger of childhood sun exposure and educating children to the risks of the sun are key to the future prevention of skin cancer. Using a sunscreen–SPF 15 or greater–during a child's first 18 years can lower the risk of certain skin cancers by 70 to 80 percent. Protective clothing and sun avoidance should also be practiced. The American Academy of Dermatology's "Block the Sun, Not the Fun" program will bring these important messages to school–age children nationwide.