Health Tip: Help Prevent Sunburn

ByABC News
May 5, 2009, 11:13 AM

May 6 -- (HealthDay News) -- Consistent use of sunscreen and limiting sun exposure are prime ways to prevent sunburn. But it's also helpful to know the factors that increase your risk of being burned by the sun.

The University of Maryland Medical Center offers this list:

  • Children and babies are more sensitive to the sun and are more likely than others to get a sunburn.
  • Anyone -- even dark-skinned people -- can get a sunburn. But fair-skinned people are at greatest risk.
  • Your risk of a burn increases when you're near things that reflect the sun, including snow, water or sand.
  • The harmful rays of the sun are strongest and most dangerous between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Certain medications, including antibiotics, can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.