On the heels of an already mild winter, Punxsutawney Phil’s Groundhog Day prediction of six more weeks of winter is a little off this year.  Much of the U.S. has been warmer than average and many regions are experiencing record high temperatures, so it’s a great time to get outdoors to enjoy the sun and fresh air.¹ Unfortunately, it’s also a prime set-up for that blind side so many of us have experienced on beautiful spring days – an unexpected sunburn!

The UV Index in parts of the country are also expected to be above average in correlation to the higher temperatures.   It’s easy to forget how strong the sun can be when the temperature is so comfortable.  If you aren’t prepared with sunscreen, you could become sunburned before you ever realize it.

Before you head outside, check the UV index on your local news or on the EPA’s  Sunwise UV Index home page.² This will help you determine the appropriate level of sunscreen protection needed for your region.  It’s always good to have a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen with an SPF of 30 of higher on hand.  UV Skincare Facial Light Sunscreen SPF35 by SkinHealth Technology is a great choice.  It is light, silky, and fragrance free so you hardly know you have it on.

1)    http://usnews.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/03/12/10652420-temps-in-60s-70s-likely-across-northeast-midwest

2)    http://www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindex.html