Jul 03, 2025

7 Surprising UV Facts Every Canadian Should Know This Summer

July is UV Awareness Month—learn how UV exposure affects your active lifestyle.

Summer is for movement-hiking, paddling, running, and soaking up nature. But July also marks UV Awareness Month, a timely reminder of the risks we face under the sun. Whether you're climbing mountains or walking your dog, understanding UV exposure is key to protecting your skin long term.

Here are 7 things you might not know about dangerous UV rays—and how to change your habits to stay safer in the sun.

1. UV rays reach you—even when it’s cloudy

Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate cloud cover. Don’t skip sun protection, including sunscreen, just because the skies are grey.

2. The higher you go, the stronger the UV

UV radiation increases with altitude—about 4–5% per 300 m.

3. UV reflects off surfaces

Concrete, sand, snow, and water bounce UV rays back at you, increasing your exposure.

4. Sweat can strip away your protection

Sweating reduces the effectiveness of sunscreen. While KINeSYS Sunscreens are 80min sweat and water resistant, reapplication is key to protection. Applying once, is never enough.

Made in Canada SPF 50 Fragrance Free Sunscreen 120ml

5. Peak UV = 10am to 4pm

Avoid direct sun during midday if you can. And to be more precise about when sun protection is needed (when UV is above 3) or for the UV your location check out the Canadian Weather page.

6. Skin is your largest organ—protect it like your gear

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in North America. Think of sun protection, including sunscreen, as essential gear, just like your shoes or hydration pack.

7. What you do now matters later

One blistering sunburn can double your risk of melanoma. Set the example: Practice Safe Sun every day. Importantly, studies show that there is an increased risk of melanoma from with increasing number of sunburns during all life-periods, not just childhood. Prevention is a life-long effort.