NATIONAL SUN RESPONSIBLY DAY
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NATIONAL SUN RESPONSIBLY DAY
On May 18, we step into the light with a new mission: National Sun Responsibly Day. This day isn't about hiding in the shadows; it’s about empowering everyone to enjoy the great outdoors with the knowledge and habits that save lives. This May 18, let's show the world that you can catch the rays and enjoy the outdoors by taking responsibility to protect our skin.
#SunResponsiblyDay
National Sun Responsibly Day falls right before Memorial Day weekend--the unofficial start of summer--marking the perfect time to talk about how we need to protect our skin from the sun. While we love the sun, there is a massive gap in education and a mountain of misinformation regarding how to enjoy it safely. National Sun Responsibly Day is about the freedom to hike, swim, and garden with the confidence that you are protecting your future self.
Most sun damage doesn't happen at the beach. It happens during "incidental" exposure while driving, walking the dog, or sitting near a window. A great way to check when the sun's UV rays are the strongest is to look at your shadow. When your shadow is shorter than you are, sun UV rays are high, reminding you to seek shade or head indoors. If you're planning on staying outdoors, applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to your face, neck, and hands will help you stay protected. Afterall, sunning responsibly isn't about avoiding the sun. It's about developing a consistent routine to manage your exposure to the sun so you can stay outdoors longer.
WAYS TO CELEBRATE #SunResponsiblyDay
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to your face, neck, and hands every single day—even when it's cloudy! Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
Seek shade when the sun is at its peak (between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.). Use this time to enjoy the shade of a tree, an umbrella, or a stylish wide-brimmed hat.
Wear UV-rated clothing, polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes, and tightly woven fabrics.
Use today as a reminder to perform a skin self-exam. Look for any new or changing spots and book that annual dermatology appointment.
If you are a dermatologist, retailer, or manufacturer, May 18 is your day to lead! Share clinical tips, debunk common sun myths, and provide your community with the tools they need to stay safe.
6. Start a conversation about sun safety by posting a "Sun Safe Selfie" showing off your favorite hat, sunglasses, or sunscreen application. Use the hashtags #NationalSunResponsiblyDay and #SunResponsibly to share across all platforms.
STORY BEHIND NATIONAL SUN RESPONSIBLY DAY
National Sun Responsibly Day was submitted in 2026 by the world leading skin care company L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty. The National Day Calendar Registrar approved this new awareness day to be celebrated each year on May 18.
Story Behind the Day
Developed by a powerhouse group of thought-leading dermatologists and retailers convened by L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty, the #SunResponsibly campaign launched across 11,000 retail locations last year, reaching millions. Now, we are taking that momentum to the national stage to ensure that healthy sun habits become as second nature as putting on a seatbelt.
Want to get involved or learn more? Follow @Sun_Responsibly on Instagram or reach out to SunResponsibly@Loreal.com to get access to resources!