PLAN AHEAD. PROTECT YOUR SKIN.
When you’re preparing for competition, you plan ahead. You practice. You prepare. You stay focused. You work hard to deliver your best performance.
Sun safety should be part of that preparation, too. And not just for the performance, but for your future health.
For marching bands, hours of outdoor rehearsals and performances can mean hours of UV exposure. And while social media may make tanning look healthy, attractive, or even something you should do, the truth is, there is no such thing as a healthy tan. A tan is a sign that your skin has been damaged by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV exposure also increases your risk of skin cancer—including melanoma.
Whether you’re a student on the field or a director leading the band, protecting your skin should be part of the game plan.
Your Band’s Sun-Safety Game Plan
SUNSCREEN: Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Reapply every 60–90 minutes, especially when sweating. Bring sunscreen to rehearsals and make reapplication part of the routine. There are basically two types of sunscreen: Mineral and Chemical. Mineral sits on top of your skin and reflects the sun’s rays. Chemical absorbs into the skin and should be applied 10 to 15 minutes before going outdoors.
COVER UP: UPF clothing, long sleeves, pants, and hats can provide additional protection from the sun.
FIND SHADE: Whenever possible, schedule breaks in shaded areas or use tents and other shade structures.
PROTECT EYES: Wear UV-blocking sunglasses and hats whenever possible.
PLAN AHEAD: When scheduling rehearsals, consider the intensity of the sun and build in shade and hydration breaks.
And remember: Don’t let social media set your sun-safety strategy. Tanning may be trending, but UV damage never goes away.
A little planning now can make a big difference later. Protect your skin today so you can keep doing what you love for years to come.
Plan ahead. Perform your best. Protect your future health.
Learn more about sun safety at outrunthesun.org. As Indiana’s only nonprofit supporting skin cancer education and melanoma research, Outrun the Sun partners with organizations nationwide to promote sun safety and skin cancer prevention.
