Summer is almost here! Summer means lake days, pool days, and beach trips for many people. However, it’s important to keep in mind that as the weather heats up and we spend more time outdoors, skin protection is a must! May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. This month aims to raise awareness about the damage that the sun can do to our skin and how we can take steps to prevent it. Through skin protection tips, you can enjoy time outdoors while still taking steps to prevent and protect against skin cancer.
The Importance of Skin Protection
While we all enjoy having a nice tan, it’s essential to recognize the harm behind overexposure to UV rays. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. and worldwide. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Most skin cancers are caused by too much UV exposure, which can come from tanning beds, sun lamps, and of course, the sun itself. While skin cancer is the most common cancer, it is also the most preventable. You can lower your risk of developing skin cancer with these skin protection steps.
How to Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Wear Sunscreen Every Day, No Matter What
One of the most straightforward steps to take to protect your skin from the sun is wearing sunscreen! Did you know that having five or more sunburns doubles your risk of melanoma? That’s reason enough to take some time and apply sunscreen! While it’s crucial to apply sunscreen before spending time outside, the Skin Cancer Foundation even recommends wearing it daily. Remember that this rule applies even if it’s a cloudy day. Get a daily moisturizer that contains SPF, or if you wear makeup, look for a foundation that has SPF as well! When looking for sunscreen, be sure to check the following items on the label:
- Broad Spectrum: protects against UVA and UVB rays
- SPF: SPF 15 is ideal for everyday exposure like taking your dog for a walk. However, SPF 30 or more is recommended for extended time outdoors
- Water Resistant: if you’re planning on spending the day at the pool or playing an outdoor game where you may get sweaty, be sure to buy water-resistant sunscreen for optimal protection.
Reapplying Is Key
Not only is applying sunscreen crucial to skin protection but reapplying is too. If you’re spending the day outdoors, be sure to reapply it every two hours. If you’re swimming or sweating, apply it every hour!
Invest in Wearable Protection
Another simple way to protect your skin is by wearing protection like baseball caps, bucket hats, and sunglasses. Hats can protect your scalp and shield your face from the sunlight. Additionally, a quality pair of sunglasses can even protect your eyes from UV rays!
Shade Is Your Friend
It’s no secret that lounging in the warm sun is soothing. However, it’s important not to overdo it! If you’re spending the day at the pool or the beach, be sure to find some shade — lounge under an umbrella or a tent to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Limit Your Time Outdoors
It’s not realistic to always stay indoors to avoid UV exposure. However, you can make sure you limit your time spent in direct sunlight! Rather than spend hours sunbathing at the pool, head inside for a break. Having a beach day? Break up your time on the beach by heading in for lunch and cooling off for a couple of hours. Don’t fear being outdoors, but you can cut back on the length of time you spend in the sun.
During Skin Cancer Awareness Month, be sure to spread the word about the importance of skin protection while utilizing these tips to protect yourself! From sunscreen to hats and sunglasses, you can enjoy time in the sun while minimizing your risk of skin cancer.
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