Living in the Sunshine State comes with undeniable perks—beautiful beaches, year-round warm weather, and plenty of time outdoors. But Florida’s constant sun exposure also brings serious health risks, particularly when it comes to skin cancer.

The Importance of Sunscreen
Sunscreen is one of the most effective tools to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays can damage the skin’s DNA, leading to premature aging, sunburns, and the development of skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and the deadliest form—melanoma.

Dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.

Florida’s Unique Risks
Florida’s geographic location means UV exposure is high year-round, even on cloudy days. With so many outdoor activities—from boating to gardening—

More Than Just Sunscreen
While sunscreen is essential, it should be part of a broader sun safety routine:
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
• Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Avoid tanning beds entirely
• Get regular skin checks with a dermatologist

Final Thoughts
Protecting your skin is not just about avoiding a sunburn—it’s about preventing long-term, potentially life-threatening damage. In sunny Florida, sunscreen isn’t optional—it’s a daily necessity.

~Dianne

Meet Paul, a very active man in all that he does. He enjoys swimming and stays healthy and keeps his mind busy with being a consultant from many local companies.
Paul was born and raised in Buffalo New York until his 20’s. Then he spent much of his life in Chicago. Paul also joined the Army Reserves and was assigned to a medical unit. After all that Paul pursued degrees in Engineering and Leadership. Paul has been the president of three major organizations and continues to use his brilliance today.
Paul has 2 children and 3 grandchildren. A fun fact about Paul, he has had three hole-in-ones while playing his favorite pastime of golf. Throughout his life he traveled the world, his favorite country is Switzerland. You’ll have to ask him why . . .Finally, as I thought I knew it all about Paul, he shared that he use to wood turning and would make wooden ornaments, here’s hoping he will share his creations with us during the holidays.