Living in Florida means year-round sunshine and outdoor adventures in every direction. That warmth and light are part of what makes life here so appealing. Whether you’ve called Florida home for years or just arrived, you know the sun follows you everywhere—from the thrill of theme parks in Orlando to the city buzz of Miami, golfing in Palm Beach, kayaking mangroves in the Keys, peaceful walks on Sarasota’s white-sand beaches, exploring historic streets in St. Augustine, beach days in Pensacola, or wandering through coastal towns along A1A.
And here in the Sunshine City of St. Pete, with an average of 361 sunny days a year, we know a thing or two about life under the sun. That’s why we’ve put together this guide with simple, sun-smart tips to help you stay protected, comfortable, and cool, no matter where your daily life in Florida takes you.
Why Sun Protection Is Essential in Florida
Florida’s location near the equator means it receives some of the highest levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the United States. On a typical day, UV exposure can start damaging your skin in just 15 minutes. During summer months, the UV Index in parts of Florida often reaches the “extreme” range of 11 or higher. At these levels, unprotected skin may begin to burn in under 5 minutes, especially for children or individuals with fair or sensitive skin. With so many Floridians and visitors enjoying outdoor activities year-round, from boating and beach outings to sports and nature trails, UV exposure adds up quickly.
Because UV damage is cumulative, starting sun protection as early as possible can make a big difference in your skin's future. While it's especially important for kids—who receive a large portion of their lifetime sun exposure during childhood—it’s never too late to begin. Establishing sun-safe habits at any age helps protect your skin long-term and supports overall skin health.
Florida Skin Cancer Risk: What You Should Know
All that beautiful sunshine comes with serious risks. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Florida, and about 1 in 10 residents (9.2%) have been diagnosed with some form of it. Most cases are non-melanoma skin cancers, which are often treatable, but Florida also has a higher-than-average rate of melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
Melanoma rates in the state are around 24.5 new cases per 100,000 people, compared to the national average of 22.7. From 2009 to 2020, diagnoses rose from 4,805 to 7,313 cases, although rates have leveled off more recently. Over 600 Floridians die of melanoma every year.
It’s important to remember that these numbers understate the problem. Non-melanoma skin cancers aren’t always tracked in cancer databases, and nationwide, more people have been treated for skin cancer in the last 30 years than for all other cancers combined. Since more than 90% of these cases are linked to excessive UV exposure, starting sun protection early in life, especially during childhood when much of that exposure happens, can make a powerful difference. But starting sun-safe habits at any point in life—whether you're protecting young kids or making changes as an adult—can still significantly support your skin's health over time.
Why Sun Protection Is Essential for Skin Health and Aging
UV exposure doesn’t just lead to sunburns or increase the risk of skin cancer. It’s also responsible for about 90% of visible skin aging, including wrinkles, sagging, and dark spots. That means protecting your skin from the sun isn’t only about avoiding serious health concerns—it’s also one of the most effective ways to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
Whether your goal is long-term skin health, slowing signs of aging, or setting a positive example for your kids, building a consistent sun protection routine is key. And with breathable, modern solutions like UPF clothing, staying safe has never been easier or more comfortable.
Sun damage starts early in life and builds up over time. That’s why it’s important to develop sun-safe habits from a young age, like applying sunscreen to exposed areas and choosing sun protective clothing. These small choices add up and offer protection and benefits that last well into adulthood.
8 Essential Tips to Live Well Under the Florida Sun
Whether you're heading out for work, school, running errands, playing sports, or spending a day on the water or golf course, Florida’s sunshine is always in the mix. These simple tips will help you build a sun protection routine that fits into your everyday life, so you can enjoy all that Florida has to offer while staying comfortable and protected.
1. Check the UV Index
Start your day by checking the UV Index. It helps you prepare for how strong the sun will be and what level of protection you’ll need. On days with high or extreme UV levels, be extra diligent about wearing UPF clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade.
Pro tip: Add a UV Index widget to your home screen (or check our UV Index forecast) so it becomes part of your morning routine.
2. Dress in UPF 50+ Clothing
Lightweight UPF 50+ clothing blocks up to 98% of UVA and UVB rays, offering reliable broad spectrum sun protection that doesn’t require reapplication like sunscreen. Unlike regular clothing, which often allows UV rays to pass through, UPF-rated fabrics are specifically engineered for sun safety, even in high-reflection environments like water or sand.
In Florida’s heat and humidity, not all sunwear is comfortable. That’s why at Essuntials, we create breathable, soft UPF 50+ clothing that feels like your favorite tee and makes sun protection feel easy. It also minimizes the need for sunscreen under your clothes, cutting down on mess, cost, and effort while keeping your skin consistently protected.
For parents: Dress kids in UPF 50+ long-sleeve shirts and wide-brimmed hats for school, park days, and beach outings. It's coverage that doesn’t wash off or sweat away.
3. Make Sunscreen Part of Your Daily Routine
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that's SPF 30+ to all exposed areas of skin every morning. Apply 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours when outdoors. Don’t forget areas like your ears, lips, and the tops of your feet.
Pro tip: Keep a travel-size sunscreen in your car, bag, or stroller so you’re always ready for reapplication.
4. Time Your Outdoor Activities
Plan activities for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the sun’s rays aren’t as strong. UV levels are at their highest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., with the most intense exposure happening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. In fact, around 60% of daily UV radiation reaches the ground during these midday hours.
5. Keep Cool with Accessories
Use accessories like UVE-rated umbrellas, cooling towels, neck fans, and sunglasses to stay cool and shielded from the sun. These tools are especially useful during beach trips, festivals, or long stretches outside at sports events.
For kids: Clip-on fans and UV-protective stroller covers can offer extra comfort and protection for little ones.
6. Stay Hydrated
Florida’s heat and humidity can sneak up on you. Carry a refillable water bottle and take regular sips, even if you’re not feeling thirsty. Staying hydrated helps prevent heat exhaustion and fatigue.
7. Take Breaks and Pace Yourself
If you're working or being active outdoors, take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces. Don’t push too hard, especially if you're adjusting to the heat or just getting back into a workout routine.
8. Build Sun-Smart Habits Into Your Daily Routine
Encourage yourself and your kids to create simple sun protection habits that feel natural and easy to stick with. Let children choose their favorite sun-safe clothing and accessories so they’re more likely to wear them consistently. Making sun protection a normal part of your routine—just like brushing your teeth—helps establish healthy habits that will benefit your skin for life.
The Bottom Line: Sun Protection Essentials for Enjoying Life in Florida
Florida life is full of sunshine and outdoor fun, but that also means we have to be more mindful about UV exposure. Sunburn and long-term skin damage are preventable with the right daily habits.
Sun protection isn’t just about preventing skin cancer. It also supports the long-term health and appearance of your skin—helping reduce visible aging and keeping your skin resilient through Florida’s year-round sun. Whether you’re applying sunscreen, choosing UPF clothing, staying hydrated, or checking the UV Index, building sun-safe habits into your routine is one of the smartest ways to protect yourself.
From the beaches and muralled streets of St. Pete to the Panhandle and the Keys, sun protection supports healthier living for people of all ages and skin types across Florida, helping maintain long-term skin health.
Live well under the sun!
Content Disclaimer: This website offers general information about health and related subjects. All content and media on the Essuntials™ website are published online for informational and educational purposes only. We do not claim ownership over any 3rd-party content used, which belongs to its respective owners. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. For any medical concerns, please seek professional medical advice.
