Sun Safety and tanning
People of all ages enjoy spending time outdoors, whether it be for work, play, or while being physically active. However, being outside often means that we are exposed to the sun and its harmful ultraviolet rays. Help protect your health by being sun safe when spending time outside at any time of year!
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation
Ultraviolet radiation (UV rays) comes from natural sources (the sun) and artificial sources (tanning equipment, lasers, welding equipment, and certain lamps). Overexposure to UV rays can cause skin cancer, premature skin aging, and weakening of the immune system. It’s important to protect yourself when exposed to either natural or artificial UV radiation.
Health Canada provides information to help you understand the type of types of UV radiation, the factors that affect ultraviolet levels, and the UV index forecast. These tools can help you make decisions to protect yourself.
Skin cancer
Skin cancer is on the rise. Learn about the risks for skin cancer and recommendations for screening.
Being sun safe
As UV rays are harmful to your skin and can cause skin cancer, it is important for you to protect yourself from UV rays all year round, not just in the summer. Health Canada provides information on ways you can protect yourself. Remember that extreme heat and some medications may increase your health risk and/or make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. If you take any medications regularly, speak to your health care provider about your medication and UV rays.
Shade
Shade is one of the best ways to reduce how much UV radiation reaches you. Natural shade includes shade created by trees and other foliage. Good sources of natural shade come from tall, leafy trees, such as the maple or linden. Portable shade structures such as umbrellas, tents, and canopies provide a good source of shade. Permanent shade structures like gazebos and awnings offer long-term shade solutions and are built to accommodate many people.
The Canadian Cancer Society provides information on how to make your own shade at home and in community.
Sunscreen
According to Health Canada, your best protection against the sun’s UV rays is to try to limit time in the sun, seek shade, cover up with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen.
Sunburns
Sunburn (also called erythema) is caused by overexposure to UV rays. Although the best treatment for sunburns is prevention, you can follow Health Canada’s first aid advice for sunburns.
Artificial tanning
There is no such thing as a safe tan! You may think a tan looks healthy, but a tan is a sign that UV rays have already damaged your skin. Your risk of skin cancer increases if you use tanning equipment. In Ontario, it is illegal to sell, offer for sale, or provide tanning services to anyone under 18 years of age (Government of Ontario). No matter your age, Health Canada recommends that you do not use tanning equipment.
Tanning bed operators have responsibilities under the Skin Cancer Prevention Act.
Sunless tanning products
Sunless tanning products (creams, spays, etc.) are thought to be a safer alternative for getting a tanned look; however, the use of some products still carry health risks. Keep in mind that unless these products contain sunscreen (Health Canada), they do not offer any protection against the sun and its UV rays. Be sure to practise sun safety (Health Canada) when using these products. Oral tanning products (tanning pills) are not authorized for sale in Canada. Learn more about tanning products by visiting Health Canada.
This item was last modified on December 19, 2024