4 Methods to Protect Your Skin this Summer
- Posted on: Jun 17 2022
Summertime is known to be a time for fun in the sun. It is also a time that people need to take extra care in protecting their skin. Sun protection is important all year round but we tend to spend more time outdoors during the summer. Too much exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause melanoma which is the deadliest type of skin cancer. UV rays are an invisible type of radiation that damages skin cells and can cause cancer. Protecting your skin from too much sun exposure and UV rays can help decrease your risk of skin cancer.
Skin Cancer Facts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States
- UV rays from the sun can damage unprotected skin in as little as 15 minutes
- There are UV rays even when it is cloudy or not too hot out
How to Protect Your Skin from Harmful UV Rays
1. Stay in the Shade
When enjoying outdoor activities, try to find or create a shady spot out of the direct sunlight. This could be under a tree, canopy, or umbrella. This will help reduce your exposure to UV rays.
2. Cover Up with Clothing
Clothing provides some UV protection. There are even some clothing brands that make fabrics that have a special coating to absorb UV rays and help protect skin. Clothing such as long sleeve shirts, long pants, and hats will help protect from UV rays. Sunglasses are also important for protecting your eyes from the sun’s rays.
3. Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen will help block dangerous UV rays. It is recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has at least an SPF of 30 or higher. It must be applied correctly according to the label. Don’t use sunscreen that has expired.
4. Avoid Tanning Beds
Although it may be tempting to go tanning to get a “base tan” for the summer or a special event, it is not advised. Tanning beds are linked to an increased risk of melanoma.
To learn more about skin cancer and protecting yourself from UV rays visit the American Cancer Society website here.
If you have any questions or to schedule an appointment with one of our physicians, contact us here today!
Resources
Be safe in the sun. American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Retrieved June 9, 2022
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, April 18). Skin cancer awareness feature. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved June 9, 2022
Posted in: Women's Health