May 17, 2021

Skin Cancer Prevention Tips

Cancer Awareness.

Warmer weather and sunny days are upon us. And while many people are looking forward to spending more time outside in the sun, it is important to keep in mind the dangers of skin cancer. The good news is, there are some easy ways to prevent skin cancer.

Did you know that the sun’s UV rays can cause skin damage even on cloudy days or if you are sitting inside near a window? For this reason, it is important to know how you can protect your skin at all times.

Read on to learn about the steps you should take to protect your skin this summer.

1.      Spend time in the shade.

Just because you want to avoid the sun’s harmful rays doesn’t mean you need to avoid being outside. Look for areas outside shaded by trees, or bring an umbrella with you to sit under.

2.      Wear sunscreen.

When it comes to sunscreen, there are several important factors to consider:

–        Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen
–        Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15

–        Use enough sunscreen. It would be best if you reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.

3.      Wear sunglasses.

Your eyes need protection from the sun too! Make sure that the sunglasses you choose have UV protection.

4.      Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and a hat that will shade your face.

These are two areas that can easily get too much sun.

5.      Avoid tanning and tanning beds.

This exposes your skin to too much sun and can cause skin damage and increase your risk of skin cancer.

6.      Do a self-examination of your skin once a month.

Check for any signs of skin cancer. Signs may include a new spot on your skin or a spot that has recently changed size, color, or shape.

7.      Visit the dermatologist at least once a year.

A dermatologist can do a thorough full-body check for any signs of skin cancer that you may have missed.

Spending time outside and enjoying the summer weather should be a safe and fun experience. Following the simple steps above will ensure you get all the benefits of spending time in the sun without the harmful parts.

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