Fun Under the Sun? … Maybe not for Your Skin
By Dr. Natalie Nasser, dermatologist at Kaiser Permanente Riverside County
As we approach summer with more sunny days and hotter temperatures, many will enjoy spending time outside hiking, going to the beach and participating in other outdoor activities that expose our skin to harmful sun exposure.
Although the sun gives our bodies vitamin D, its harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to serious complications that include skin cancer. Consider the following from The Skin Cancer Foundation:
- One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70.
- More than two people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour.
- Having five or more sunburns doubles your risk of melanoma.
- When detected early, the five-year survival rate of melanoma is 99%.
According to the foundation, more people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined.
When we are out having an enjoyable day, it can be easy to forget how harmful the sun can be to our skin, but there are simple precautions we can all take.
One way you can significantly reduce the chances of developing melanoma is by applying sunscreen every day with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. When choosing, make sure the sunscreen offers both UVA and UVB protection – those sunscreens are usually labeled as “broad spectrum.” Also, make sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently when in the water or sweating.
I also recommend taking the following additional steps to protect yourself and your loved ones against skin cancer.
- When possible, avoid sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Remember that water and sand can reflect 85% of the sun’s rays.
- To protect your eyes, wear sunglasses capable of blocking 99% of UVA and UVB radiation.
- Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on your ears and your lips – many lip balms include SPF.
- When possible, wear long sleeves and a wide brimmed hat. Wear clothing with the UPF label that helps protect against UV radiation.
- Because baby skin is more sensitive, completely shield the skin of babies younger than 6 months from the sun.
By taking precautions, we can protect our skin and keep it looking healthy as we age. It’s also important to be on the lookout for any new spots or growths on your skin that you may notice are changing. If they change rapidly, itch or bleed, be sure to visit your healthcare provider.
Visit kp.org to learn more about skin cancer prevention information available to everyone.
For More Health News Visit www.zapinin.com/health