CDC recommends sunscreen as dangerously hot weather blankets Mid-Missouri

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Columbia and counties across Mid-Missouri are expected to see weather flirt with triple digits on Thursday, and the CDC recommends wearing sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.

The CDC's website says sunscreen works best when paired with other preventative measures such as wearing protective clothing and staying out of direct sunlight in shaded areas.

Preventative clothing includes hats, which can provide protection and shade to your face, ears, and the back of your neck.

Sunglasses, while protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays also protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure.

When deciding what to wear, darker colors may provide more UV protection than lighter colors, with some clothing certified under international standards as offering UV protection.

For sunscreen, officials recommend at least 15 SPF, or Sun Protection Factor is recommended. Sun Protection Factor rates how well sunscreen blocks UV rays, with higher numbers being more effective.

Sunscreen is not recommended for babies who are 6 months old or younger and should be kept out of the sun during midday hours if possible. If an infant does need to be in direct sunlight, proper protective clothing is recommended.

Sunscreen can wear off, especially while sweating, swimming or wiping off. The CDC recommends reapplying around every two hours, if planning on spending a prolonged time outdoors.

Residents should check their sunscreen's expiration date and be aware exposure to high temperatures may shorten the shelf life of sunscreen.