Sun protection should be of great concern to everybody no matter the weather for the day, be it rain or shine. This is because the sun may not be out in full force during cloudy, overcast days but it does not necessarily mean that its ultraviolet rays are prevented from reaching the earth.

In fact, only 20 percent of said ultraviolet rays are held back by the clouds while 80 percent can still do damage to the skin. Yes, even during the winter season, the sun still has the power to start the process of skin cancer development. Sun protection is a must no matter where you are, what you are doing and what time of the year it is, pure and simple.

Timing is Key

We have all heard about the thinning of the ozone layer as well as about climate change. Without going into the technical details, we are feeling the effects of these environmental phenomena through hotter days with the sun's rays stronger than we have ever remembered them to be. It just feels like our skin burns upon contact with the sunlight.

This is especially true when the sun is typically at its most intense from 10 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon. This is the window of time when you should stay indoors, if you can. Now, if your work demands staying outdoors at these hours, then we strongly suggest wearing UV protection clothing from the hats and shirt to the pants and shoes.

Seek the Shade

If you must be outdoors, do seek the shade. It can be under a tree, under an umbrella or under an overhang just as long as it is shady. Of course, do wear your protective UV clothing and sunglasses as the reflection from the pavement, water and even the glass on buildings can still bring on skin cancer over time.

Slather on Sunscreen and Sunblock

Don't forget to liberally slather on either sunscreen or sunblock. Either of these topical applications provide for sufficient protection against the sun's rays although it is an excellent idea to read labels. You want to apply sunscreens with both UVA and UVB protection, just like the kind offered by sunblock.

Do remember to re-apply before sunbathing as well as after exercise or swimming. Sweat and seawater can wash away the sunscreen, thus, leaving you unprotected against ultraviolet rays.

Dress for Defensive Action

Sun protection clothing has been mentioned many times in this article without going into the specifics. Well, let's remedy that by defining sun protective clothing as apparel especially designed to provide protection against the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. It runs the gamut from hats and sunglasses to shirts and trousers in all shapes, sizes and styles.

You can purchase these clothes from many stores and online sites specializing in these types of clothing. Most of these clothes have ultraviolet protection factor ratings in the same way that sunscreens have their sun protection factor rating. Again, the general rule is that the higher the SPF, the better it is.

Even when the sun is hotter that it usually is in recent memory, we are all fortunate to have sun protection clothing on our side. The trick is in always using them the right way but that's for another article.