Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays penetrate through clouds, making it easy to underestimate exposure on overcast days.

Similarly, reflective surfaces like snow, sand, and water can intensify UV radiation by up to 80%, increasing skin damage risk even in cooler weather or indirect sunlight.

Just one severe sunburn in childhood can double a person’s lifetime risk of developing melanoma. Additionally, those who have experienced five or more sunburns have twice the likelihood of developing melanoma as adults.

Sun exposure without protection accounts for about 80% of visible skin aging, including fine lines and age spots. UVA rays contribute significantly to this aging by deeply penetrating the skin, causing structural damage.

Despite the risks, many people don’t apply sunscreen consistently. Recent data shows that only about one-third of adults in the U.S. use sunscreen correctly, with even fewer reapplying it every two hours as recommended. This leaves sensitive areas, like the face and hands, particularly vulnerable.

Over 9,500 Americans are diagnosed daily with skin cancer, with melanoma cases reaching over 200,000 new cases annually in the U.S. Many of these cases are attributed to prolonged, unprotected UV exposure, highlighting the importance of consistent sun protection.