MU doctor: Take protective measures against sun exposure

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Temperatures outside are getting hotter and there are increased chances of sun exposure during the next few months

The UV index in Mid-Missouri is high. The environmental protection agency says this is when protection is needed against the sun. Too much sun exposure can lead to burns and types of skin cancer.

MU Health Care Dermatologist Dr. Kari Martin says it is important to take preventative steps when it comes to sun exposure. She said it is important to wear sunscreen to prevent damage to your skin.

If you need to be outside between 10 a.m.-4 p.m., take steps to reduce sun exposure. A shirt, hat and sunscreen are a must, and be sure you seek shade.

"In general, it's recommended that you use an SPF of 30 or higher and it needs to be reapplied about every two hours,” Dr. Kari Martin, MU Health Care dermatologist, said. “Quicker than that if you are sweating a lot or if you are in and out of a pool or the lake for example and you're towel drying and kind of rubbing some of that sunscreen off."

Martin also said using sunscreen should be a last resort after trying to make plans around peak hours of the day, creating shade, and using sun-protective clothing.

She recommends you would then use sunscreen on any part of your skin still exposed to the sun.