With many stores and attractions still closed because of COVID-19, Pennsylvanians are heading outdoors for exercise and entertainment.

And while spending time outdoors is beneficial, extra sun exposure can be harmful to a person's skin.

It's important to be mindful of skin health as summer approaches.

“The skin is your body's protection against all types of insults from the outside world,” said Dr. Chad Hendrickson, a dermatologist for Butler Health System. “A healthy barrier protects against bacteria, viruses, fungus, chemicals, pollutants, UV radiation and more.”

Perhaps the most talked about skin problem resulting from excessive outdoor summertime activity is skin cancer.

Hendrickson said though skin cancer can appear any time during the year, people are at more risk for exposure to damaging UV rays during sunnier months.

This is an excerpt from a larger article that appeared in Tuesday's Butler Eagle. Subscribe online or in print to read the full article.