May is National Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month

Sun Safety: How to Enjoy the Sun While Protecting Your Skin

Enjoying the sunshine is undoubtedly one of life’s great pleasures. However, it’s crucial to remember the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure. Skin cancer remains the most prevalent form of cancer in the United States, with an estimated 100,350 new cases of melanoma, its most severe type, expected this year alone. Alarmingly, about 6,850 individuals may lose their lives to this aggressive disease.

 

While melanoma is generally more common in men, women under 50 are diagnosed at higher rates. Additionally, basal and squamous cell carcinomas, though less severe, are also on the rise with around 3.5 million cases diagnosed annually. The major contributing factor? UV exposure from the sun—yet only a little over half of American adults regularly use sunscreen.

 

Here are a few esthetician-approved tips to enhance your sun protection routine:

 

1. Choose Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Always opt for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection to guard against both UVA and UVB rays. Aim for an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.

 

2. Incorporate Protective Clothing: Wear hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts that provide additional protection. Clothing with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating is especially effective.

 

3. Seek Shade: Especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest. Using umbrellas or seeking shelter under trees can drastically reduce your UV exposure.

 

4. Use Antioxidants: Incorporate skincare products that contain antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, or green tea. These can combat free radicals generated by UV exposure and enhance your skin’s natural sun defense.

 

5. Regular Skin Checks: Early detection is vital. Schedule annual skin checks with a dermatologist and perform regular self-examinations. Look for new moles or changes in existing ones, and report any changes to your healthcare provider immediately.

 

The good news is that most skin cancers can be effectively cured with early detection and treatment. By making sun protection a staple in your wellness routine, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin healthy and reducing your risk of skin cancer. Let’s stay safe and enjoy the sun responsibly!