How to Protect Your Skin During the Minnesota Summer

Sun protection is important because UV rays can damage skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

Over time, repeated UV exposure can lead to:

• Skin cancer, including melanoma
• Premature wrinkles and fine lines
• Age spots and uneven skin tone
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Painful sunburns

Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate cloud cover. Many Minnesota residents underestimate their UV exposure because temperatures are often milder than in southern states, but UV damage can occur regardless of temperature.

The best sunscreen for summer is a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

When choosing sunscreen, look for:

• SPF 30 or higher
• Broad-spectrum protection
• Water-resistant formulas for swimming or outdoor activities

You should reapply sunscreen every two hours and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.

For maximum protection:

• Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors.
• Use enough product to cover all exposed skin.
• Reapply regularly throughout the day.

Commonly missed areas include:

• Ears
• Neck
• Scalp
• Lips
• Hands
• Tops of feet

These areas are frequently exposed to sunlight and can develop skin cancer if left unprotected.

To protect your skin around lakes and water, wear protective clothing, use sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible.

Water reflects sunlight, increasing UV exposure. Activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and paddleboarding can expose your skin to UV rays from multiple angles.

When spending time on the water:

• Wear UPF-rated clothing
• Use polarized sunglasses with UV protection
• Reapply sunscreen frequently
• Take breaks in shaded areas

Yes. Sun-protective clothing provides a physical barrier that helps block harmful UV rays.

Recommended options include:

• Lightweight long-sleeved shirts
• Wide-brimmed hats
  UV-protective swimwear
• Sunglasses with 100% UV protection

Many brands now offer clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating, which indicates how effectively the fabric blocks UV radiation.

The sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

To reduce UV exposure:

• Schedule outdoor activities earlier or later in the day
• Seek shade whenever possible
• Use umbrellas, tents, or canopies during outdoor events

Avoiding peak UV hours can significantly reduce your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Yes. Staying hydrated supports overall skin health and helps maintain the skin barrier.

To stay hydrated:

• Drink water consistently throughout the day
• Limit excessive alcohol consumption
• Reduce sugary beverages
• Use a lightweight moisturizer if your skin feels dry

Hydrated skin is better able to maintain elasticity and recover from environmental stressors.