With kids officially out of school for the summer, everyone is ready to get out of the house and get some sun. While having fun in the sun sounds like a blast, being aware of the risks is just as important.
According to Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year, making it the most common cancer in the United States. Prevention is just as important as knowing the signs and symptoms to look out for, and below we have a few tips to help protect yourself and prevent skin cancer.
- Limit your time in the sun
- According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, UV rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the best time to take a break inside or plop down in a shady spot and reapply some sunscreen.
- Use sunscreen
- Speaking of sunscreen, University Dermatology Associates physician Dr. Gregory Simpson provided some great tips on picking a sunscreen, when to apply it, and when to use it in A Dollop (of Sunscreen) A Day Keeps the Dermatologist Away.
- Speaking of sunscreen, University Dermatology Associates physician Dr. Gregory Simpson provided some great tips on picking a sunscreen, when to apply it, and when to use it in A Dollop (of Sunscreen) A Day Keeps the Dermatologist Away.
- Accessorize
- Wearing sunglasses and hats can help protect your face and eyes from harsh UV rays.
- Check yourself out
- Once a month, look at all your freckles, moles, dark spots, and anything you see from head to toe. Knowing what all your freckles, moles, and spots look like can help you spot a change faster.
- Call in the experts
- If a mole you’ve had for a while starts to change shape or color and you’re unsure about it, bring in the experts. University Dermatology Associates’ board-certified physicians and advanced practice providers can help you take care of your skin and be a vital partner in your care to ensure you look and feel your best while reducing your risk of skin cancer.
Stay sun-safe and have fun this summer!