Skip to Content

A Dermatologist's Guide to Beating UV Rays

Woman in blue scrubs stands with arms crossed in a clinic.
Dr. Georgia G. Hughey, Dermatologist at Jackson VA, helps Veterans protect their skin from harmful UV rays.

By Courtney Ammons, Public Affairs Specialist

Every July, we recognize UV Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on one of the most common, and most preventable, causes of cancer in America.

To mark the occasion, we sat down with Dr. Georgia G. Hughey, a resident physician in our Dermatology service, to talk about why UV protection matters and what Veterans can do to protect their skin.

Dr. Hughey, who has been with VA for three years sees the effects of UV exposure up close every day.

"As a dermatologist, UV awareness is important because I see firsthand how the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation accumulate over a lifetime," Dr. Hughey said. "Many of the skin conditions I diagnose and treat, from premature aging to skin cancer, are largely preventable with proper sun protection and early education."

A Common Misconception

One myth Dr. Hughey hears often from patients: "I don't need sunscreen because I'm only outside for a few minutes."

"Many patients don't realize that UV exposure is cumulative," she explained. "Everyday activities, walking the dog, driving, gardening, or sitting near a window, add up over time. Even short, repeated periods of unprotected sun exposure contribute to premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer."

Why UV Awareness Matters

UV radiation is the leading cause of most skin cancers, and the numbers are striking:

  • About 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
  • Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers.
  • Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays reduces your risk of both skin cancer and premature aging.

How to Practice Safe Sun

Dr. Hughey and dermatologists nationwide recommend three simple steps:

  1. Seek Shade
    The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. A helpful trick: if your shadow is shorter than you are, it's time to seek shade.
  2. Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
    Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses all help shield your skin. For added protection, look for clothing labeled with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating.
  3. Apply Sunscreen
    Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on all exposed skin, and don't forget to reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.

Skin cancer prevention doesn't require drastic changes, just consistent, everyday habits. Take a page from Dr. Hughey's advice and make sun protection part of your daily routine, whether you're out for a long hike or just running a quick errand.