Sun Exposure

When international travelers engage in outdoor activities, they may be exposed to more ultraviolet (UV) radiation than usual, particularly in sunny locations or at high elevations. Even winter activities, such as snow skiing, can result in significant UV exposure. Short bursts of high-intensity UV radiation (such as the occasional beach vacation) as well as frequent, prolonged, cumulative UV exposure can cause acute effects, such as sunburn and phototoxic medication reactions, and delayed effects, such as sun damage, premature aging, and skin cancers.