We all love summer with water sports, outdoor play, and family outings. By now, most of us understand how essential it is to protect our skin from the sun. The message that still is unclear for many is how often to protect yourself and how. Putting on sunscreen in the morning and thinking you are protected all day is not always the case. Let’s look at the when, how, and where of skin cancer prevention.
Let’s Not Forget “The Why”
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and exposed skin can be damaged in as little as 15 minutes.
You’re more at risk to develop skin cancer if you have light skin, blue or green eyes, there is a family history, and you are older. Reducing your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is the best way to lower your risk of developing skin cancer.
Skin cancer is real and is dangerous.
“When” To Protect Your Skin From Skin Cancer
Actually, we should all use sunscreen twelve months out of the year, even in winter. Don’t think a cloudy day will protect you from UV rays. We should all apply sunscreen every single day.
When we are in the sun with exposed skin, use sunscreen before you venture outside. If you sweat or go in the water at the beach, re-apply every 2 hours. It doesn’t matter if you are walking your dog, a spectator at a ball game, or grilling in your backyard, that is when to protect your skin from skin cancer.
Select early evening for get togethers or outings. 5 to 6 PM is a great time to have an outdoor BBQ or go to the beach.
“How” To Protect Your Skin From Skin Cancer
The first step is to use a minimum SPF 15 sunscreen. Higher is better protection.
Keep exposed skin covered whenever possible. Wear long sleeve shirts and long pants. Use a hat with a wide brim, and stay in the shade especially late morning and mid-afternoon.
Wear wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes. Did you know your eyes can get sunburned? It is a painful condition with red, dry and gritty eyes as a result. If this should occur, make an appointment with Goodless Dermatology at our location in Orlando or Celebration, FL.
Re-apply sunscreen during the day.
Find a good sunless self-tanner if you must have that look of a tan.
“Where” To Protect Your Skin From Skin Cancer
It is crucial to protect any exposed skin. This includes the top of your ears, neck, your scalp if you’re bald, and your feet. If you spend a lot of time driving, be sure your left arm is well smeared with sunscreen.
Never use a tanning bed.
No matter what location of the world you are in, you need to protect your skin.
Final Thoughts
We all want to enjoy the summer with our family, but not at the expense of risking skin cancer. Apply all these tips to your children and other family members.
Don’t forget to make an appointment for an annual skin check.
Contact Goodless Dermatology at (407) 566-1616, or request an appointment online, if you have a suspicious new mole or if something has changed.