Fun in the Sun: A Guide to Protect Your Skin
Summer is just around the corner, and while it’s wonderful to enjoy fun in the sun, we need to make sure that we’re protecting ourselves from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays, especially when it comes to skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the US, and one in five Americans will develop it at some point in their lives. Scary, right? Here are the three most important things you can do to protect your skin from sun damage and skin cancer.
Cover up with clothing, hats, and UV-Blocking Sunglasses
One of the simplest ways to protect your skin from the sun is to cover it up with clothing. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants can protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. It’s also a good idea to wear wide-brimmed hats, which protect your face, neck, and ears. You can also wear UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them from sun damage.
Wear broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily
Wearing sunscreen with a high SPF rating is incredibly important in protecting your skin from the sun. Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen is recommended as it protects your skin against both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen should be applied regularly, at least 15-30 minutes before going outside, and reapplied every couple of hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to often-forgotten areas such as your ears, lips, and the tops of your feet.
Did you know that DNA repair enzymes repair the damage that is caused by the sun before it can make changes in the skin which lead to aging and skin cancer? Pairing your SPF with DNA Repair increases your UV protection by up to 300%.
Have high-risk spots checked
Regular skin checks are important, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or have several moles or freckles. Keep an eye out for spots or moles that look different from others, have changed in size, shape, or texture, or are painful and itchy. If you notice any concerning spots, seeking medical advice from a dermatologist is important.
Stay in the shade
While it may be tempting to bask in the sun, staying in the shade during peak sun hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., can reduce your risk of skin cancer. Additionally, sitting in the shade can keep you cooler and prevent overheating, which is another important factor in protecting your skin.
Take your supplements
Did you know that taking your daily supplements can prevent skin cancer? Heliocare and nicotinamide help support skin health and promote younger, more resilient-looking skin. Our dermatologists recommend Heliocare and nicotinamide to patients with heavily damaged skin.
Heliocare Advanced is a daily dietary supplement made with exclusive Fernblock® Polypodium leucotomos extract (PLE) technology. Nicotinamide is a non-flushing form of Vitamin B3 that has been shown to support skin health and energy production.
In conclusion, skin cancer awareness is essential to protecting your health. By taking simple steps such as covering up with clothing, wearing sunscreen, and having high-risk spots checked regularly, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. So, let’s put these tips into action, have fun in the sun, and most importantly, protect our skin!
