Keep your skin safe year-round with these prevention tips.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in America, with 1 in 5 Americans developing it during their lifetimes, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD).
Safe in the Sun
Basal cell skin cancer, squamous cell skin cancer, and melanoma have all been linked to sun exposure, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Basal and squamous cell skin cancers are the most common forms of skin cancer in the United States and often develop on frequently sun-exposed skin, such as on the head, neck, and arms. Melanoma is a less common form of skin cancer, but it is more likely to grow and spread to other areas of the body.
The best way to protect against skin cancer is to avoid ultraviolet (UV) rays. Most people are exposed to UV rays through sunlight, although tanning beds and sun lamps also emit UV rays.
Follow these three steps to avoid UV exposure, as recommended by the AAD:
- Stay indoors or seek shade between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
- When you do have to be outdoors, wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, a long-sleeved shirt, and pants, whenever possible.
- Apply sunscreen to exposed skin, and reapply every two hours or, if you’re at the pool or beach, every time you get out of the water.
Finally, avoid tanning beds. Studies have shown people who use tanning beds are at a higher risk for all forms of skin cancer, according to the ACS.
Choose the Right Sunscreen
The AAD recommends using sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which means the sunscreen will protect against both forms of ultraviolet (UV) rays—UVA and UVB—that can cause skin cancer.
Apply enough sunscreen to cover your entire body, about 2 tablespoons, 15 minutes before going outside, even on cloudy days.
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