This is Whole Minds Healthy Bodies the podcast. A 360 Health initiative from Aetna exclusively for you...the MTA...where the goal is improving your total health and wellbeing....

In this episode of Whole Minds Healthy Bodies, Dr. Donna Thomas breaks down the essential facts about sun protection and skin safety. Whether you’re commuting, working outdoors, or relaxing on a weekend, protecting your skin from UV rays is a vital part of overall health. Dr. Thomas debunks common myths about melanin and sun safety, explains how SPF really works, and offers easy-to-follow tips for applying sunscreen effectively.

This episode is packed with practical sun safety strategies for MTA employees and their families, including how to choose the right sunscreen, why eye protection matters, and how to build habits that can prevent long-term damage like skin cancer.

Key Takeaways:

• Sun protection is essential for all skin tones—melanin is not enough.
• SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates how long sunscreen will protect you from UVB rays.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming.
• Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure to allow absorption.
• A nickel-sized amount is recommended for your face.
• Don't forget vulnerable areas like lips, ears, and the back of your neck.
• Sunglasses should offer 100% UV protection to safeguard your eyes.
• Protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats add an extra layer of defense.
• Starting a sun protection routine now helps prevent skin cancer and long-term damage.

This episode is made in partnership with Balancing Life’s Issues.

Additional Resources:

Whole Minds Healthy Bodies - https://wholeandhealthy.website

Balancing Life's Issues - https://balancinglifesissues.com/podcast-bli/

Thank you for listening to Whole Minds Healthy Bodies the podcast. A 360 Health initiative from Aetna exclusively for you...the MTA...where the goal is improving your total health and wellbeing....

Don’t forget! You can visit wholeandhealthy.website for free access to incredible content created by experts. Podcasts, webinars, and reading materials on topics like sleep, inner peace, nutrition, and meditation. Exclusively for you the MTA.