Summer is for getting outside, staying active and enjoying the day. A few simple skin safety for summer habits can help you protect your skin while still doing what you love. And if something changes, it helps to know where to go for the right next step.
Skin care does not have to be complicated. With the right tools, you can make confident decisions, get guidance when you need it and keep moving forward.
What sun safety really means
Most skin cancers are linked to too much ultraviolet (UV) exposure. The good news is that everyday protection habits make a difference, and they work well alongside an active lifestyle.
A smart place to start is the clock:
- UV rays are often strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- If the UV Index is 3 or higher, it is a good time to use sun protection habits like shade, sunscreen and protective clothing.
This is not about avoiding the outdoors. It is about planning for it.
A summer-ready skin checklist you can actually use
Here are practical steps that fit real life, whether you are working outside, driving all day or spending time at the lake.
- Cover and protect
- Choose shade when you can
- Wear sun-protective clothing when it makes sense for your day
- Wear a wide-brim hat
- Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays
- Use sunscreen
Do not forget “easy-to-miss” spots:
- Hairline and scalp (especially with shorter hair or thinning areas)
- Ears
- Back of neck
- Tops of feet and backs of hands
Know your skin, know what “normal” looks like
Skin cancer can affect every skin tone. Some people burn faster than others, but everyone benefits from consistent protection. Get in the habit of performing quick monthly skin checks so you can spot changes early.
The American Academy of Dermatology’s ABCDE guide is an easy way to remember what to watch for:
A: Asymmetry – one half does not match the other
B: Border – irregular or hard-to-define edges
C: Color – multiple colors or uneven shading
D: Diameter – often larger than a pencil eraser, but can be smaller
E: Evolving – changing in size, shape or color
If you notice a spot that is new, changing, itching or bleeding, it is worth getting checked.
When to use MyLiveDoc
When a skin concern comes up, it helps to know whether you can start with virtual care or whether an in-person visit makes more sense.
MyLiveDoc can be a smart first step for non-emergency skin concerns like:
- Rashes and skin irritation
- Bug bites
- Mild infections or redness
- Questions about sunburn care and recovery
- Guidance on whether you should be seen in person
MyLiveDoc offers access to licensed providers 24/7, and you can connect from your phone, tablet or computer.
How to access MyLiveDoc:
- Open the Covered365™ app and log in with your Member Portal credentials
- Tap the MyLiveDoc icon
Know where to go: Provider search for in-person care
Sometimes the right next step is an in-person visit, especially for a full skin exam or a spot that needs a closer look. If you are not sure which network applies to your plan, start in your Covered365 app or review your plan materials for the most accurate guidance.
Sun protection is an everyday habit, not a perfection test. Start with one or two steps you can repeat and build from there. And when questions come up, you do not have to guess.