In the US alone, there are over one million people diagnosed with skin cancer every year. That’s more than all the other types of cancers. The good news is studies suggest that most types of skin cancer are highly preventable simply by practicing sun protection. Exposure to UV radiation is a major risk factor for skin cancer. To lower the risk of skin cancer, the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) recommends the following sun protection and skin care practices:
• Don’t lie under the sun deliberately without any sun protection. While a tanned skin may look attractive and sexy, the increased risk of skin cancer, as well as premature skin aging that this causes is definitely not worth it. Unprotected exposure to the sun to get the cosmetic benefits for a short period of time will damage your skin permanently causing wrinkles, blotchiness and sagging skin. To achieve the same effect safely, consider using sunless self-tanners as tanning beds also emit Ultraviolet rays.
• If you’re worried about Vitamin D deficiency, get it safely through a balanced diet and vitamin supplements.
• Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin with a Sun Protection Factor or SPF of at least 15 and protection from both Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. The Academy suggests using an ounce of sunscreen which is the size of a shot glass to cover the areas of your skin. You should also apply it in your ears, nose, neck, hands and toes because these areas are where skin cancer commonly develops. You should not forget your lips either. Using a lip balm with at least SPF 15 works best for this. One thing that people should remember is that sunscreen must be applied 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every two hours for optimum protection.
• Use protective clothing and accessories such as long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses for supplementary sun protection. Tightly woven clothing works well as additional protection from the harmful rays of the sun.
• Avoid sun exposure from 10am to 4pm because that’s the time when the sun’s UV rays are strongest.
• Be aware that water, snow and sand reflect UV rays, which contribute to more sun exposure for you.
• Inspect all areas of your body for any changes, growths or bleeding regularly and consult your dermatologist if you suspect any possible cause of skin cancer. Early detection is extremely important to get a good prognosis because early stage skin cancers are highly treatable.
Practice these sun protection and skin care practices to reduce the risk of developing premature skin aging, and more importantly, skin cancer. Remember that skin cancer is highly preventable and doing these tips religiously every single day is what it takes to lower the risk of this dangerous illness.