Sun Protection
The number one way to protect yourself from skin cancer is using sun protection! Sunburns are the leading cause of most skin cancers, not to mention that it also the primary cause of aging skin. Here are some of our top recommendations for protecting yourself from the sun!
Wear Sun Protective Clothing
Cover it up when you go outside! Wear wide brimmed hats, sunglasses, long sleeves, and long trousers. Nowadays, there are many breathable fabrics that also offer high UV protection. Look for UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) labels on hats and clothing. The higher the UPF, the higher the protection.
Apply and Reapply Sunscreen
Hat and long sleeves are great! But they can’t cover everything, and you must apply sunscreen to all exposed areas. If you are going to be outside for more than 30 minutes, use SPF 30+ sunscreen, and reapply every two hours if you continue to be outdoors.
Furthermore, even on days that you are indoors, we recommend wearing SPF 15+ sunscreen to your face, neck, and other exposed areas. Windows can block most UVB rays, but they do not block UVA rays, so a broad spectrum sunscreen is still required to protect you from the UVA rays you get from sitting by a window or driving in your car.
If you don’t like how sunscreen feels or the white cast it leaves on your face. We have a lovely line of EltaMD and SkinCeuticals sunscreens in our office that have a very light feel and come in tinted or untinted varieties. Please feel free to stop by to test out some products!
Furthermore, if you have sensitive skin, you can use mineral based sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. We also carry many mineral based sunscreens in our office that you can come in to try!
3. Say NO to Tanning Beds
Just say no! Tanning bed use, even one time, increases your risk for all kinds of skin cancer. If you must, self-tanners are a much safer alternative to using tanning beds, but remember that they don’t offer any protection from the sun. Still wear sunscreen whenever you are exposed to the sun!