After a cold and dreary winter, it can be tempting to soak up the first rays of summer sun. But be sure to take cover, as overexposure to ultraviolet light rays can result in skin cell damage, wrinkles, age spots, and even skin cancer.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sun protection should begin in infancy and continue through adulthood.
Since we get approximately 80 percent of our sun exposure in the first 18 years, protection during childhood is very important to prevent skin cancer later.
Sun Safety Tips
- Wear a broad-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, long pants and
sunglasses.
- Use sunscreen lotion and lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 to protect against UVA and UVB radiation. Reapply every two hours and especially after swimming or sweating. Apply generously even on hazy or cloudy days.
- Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s
damaging rays are most intense.
- Be aware of how long you spend in the sun. It can take only 15 minutes for a fair-skinned person to burn in direct sunlight.
- Remember that effects of the sun are increased by reflections from water, sand and snow. You can get sunburned
while sitting in the shade, relaxing under an umbrella, or playing outside on an overcast day.
- Refer to the daily UV index on your local weather forecast when planning outdoor activities.
- Steer clear of tanning beds and sun lamps.
- Keep infants under 6 months of age out of direct sunlight and in loose, protective clothing. Sunscreen may be applied after the age of 6 months.
When to See Your Physician
It’s a good idea to check your skin regularly. If you detect suspicious moles that fall within the following guidelines, it’s time to consult a physician:
Asymmetrical – one-half of the mole does not match the other.
Border – Edges are irregular, notched or blurred.
Color – Color is variegated with differing shades of brown, black, blue, white, or red.
Diameter – The mole is the size of a pencil eraser or larger.
Perhaps the most important line of defense against skin cancer is an overall shift in attitude about sun exposure— such as the perception that people appear more attractive with tans. This, combined with responsible enjoyment of the outdoors, can result in happy, healthy summer fun!
Download Sun Safety Tips
Sources: U.S. Centers for Disease Control, American Academy of Dermatology, American Cancer Society, drkoop.com.
The material contained in Healthy Habits is not intended to be medical advice on any particular matter. Readers should seek appropriate professional advice before acting on the basis of any information contained in this publication. This information is provided courtesy of Optima Health.
Each edition of Healthy Habits is reviewed and approved by Optima Health's Editorial Board prior to publication.