# Stay Sun-Safe in Oro Valley
Glen Frey hit the nail on the head in the ’80s with “The heat is on!” And here in Southern Arizona, we sure can feel it. Oro Valley sizzled in 2017, and 2018 promises more of the same.
Living in this sunny paradise, we’re lucky to have so many outdoor activities at our fingertips, thanks in part to Oro Valley Parks and Recreation. Let’s talk about how to keep your skin safe while soaking up all that sunshine.
We’ve all been there—caught off guard by a sunburn that seems to zero in on the one spot you missed with sunscreen. I learned my lesson playing beach volleyball, realizing too late that burnt feet are no fun. Sunburns may come and go, but their effects can linger, so let’s understand the risks.
Here’s why sunburns are a bigger deal than you might think:
– Risk for melanoma doubles after more than five sunburns.
– Skin cancer diagnoses outnumber all other cancers in the U.S. combined.
– 90% of skin aging is attributed to sun exposure.
– Someone dies from melanoma every hour.
So yes, sunburns matter! Surprisingly, many don’t realize what’s happening when a sunburn occurs. It’s your body responding to UV rays damaging your skin’s DNA. The inflammation and peeling are your skin’s way of protecting against cancer by shedding damaged cells.
Your body produces melanin to shield your skin from UV rays. This pigment darkens the skin, but if you don’t produce enough, you might end up with freckles. Genetics play a role, but regardless of your melanin, everyone needs sun protection.
Remember Baz Luhrmann’s advice from 1993—wear sunscreen. It’s as simple as that. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can harm your skin. Reapply every 90 minutes using SPF 30 or higher. Consumer Reports recommends Equate brand from Walmart as one of the best. Besides sunscreen, wide-brim hats, shade, and long sleeves are your friends.
Think tanning beds are safer? Think again. Their risks have led to bans or regulations in several countries and states. Safety first!
We’re not saying stay indoors all summer—just be sun-smart. Protect yourself, and you can enjoy all of Oro Valley’s fantastic summer events. Celebrate July 4th with fireworks at Naranja Park. On July 7, take part in the OV Splash and Dash. Sign the kids up for the Put Me in Coach clinic on July 14 at Riverfront Park. Don’t miss the Flag Football Combine at Naranja Park on July 21, and cap off the month with the Round Up at the Ranch 5k Run/Walk on July 29 at Steam Pump Ranch. For more details, visit orovalleyaz.gov.
So grab that sunscreen and hat, and dive into Oro Valley’s summer fun. Just don’t forget to cover the tops of your feet!
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