Fair Season Is Here and So Is the Sun

When you think of a day at the fair, you might picture funnel cake, ferris wheels, and the smell of fresh hay. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to spend six hours or more outside, often with nothing but a straw hat for protection.

Pennsylvania’s fair season lasts through the warm months, and although the fairgrounds are full of fun, they don’t provide much shade. Walking from one exhibit to another can mean hours in the sun, and you might not notice how much sun you’ve gotten until you see a sunburn. The sun can catch you off guard before you even notice.

Staying hydrated is just as important as protecting your skin from the sun. Walking around in the heat and eating salty fair food can quickly lead to dehydration if you’re not careful. A few easy habits can help you feel better by the end of the day:

• Bring a refillable water bottle and sip often, instead of waiting until you feel thirsty.
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every 2 hours, or more often if you’re sweating.
• Take breaks by finding shaded rest spots, food tents, or indoor exhibits to give your skin a chance to recover from the sun.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and light, breathable clothes that cover your shoulders and arms.

One day at the fair might not make much of a difference, but years of sun exposure add up. That’s why regular skin checks matter. Many skin cancers, including melanoma, can be treated if found early, but they’re often easy to miss. Sometimes, a new freckle or a mole that looks different is the first sign that something needs attention. Checking your skin regularly, at home or with a specialist, gives you the best chance to catch changes early.

Enjoy the fair, the rides, and the funnel cake, but remember to make sun protection a priority. If you’ve noticed a new or changing spot, or if it’s been a while since your last skin check, PCSRI is here to help. Visit pcsri.com to make an appointment.