Relaxing in the sun may feel good. But it isn’t good for your skin. In fact, the sun’s harmful rays are the major cause of skin cancer. This is a serious disease that can be life-threatening. People of all ages, races, and backgrounds are at risk.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. But in most cases, it can be prevented.
Your role in prevention
You can act today to help prevent skin cancer. Start by avoiding the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) rays. And don’t use tanning beds or lamps. They are no safer than the sun. Taking these steps can help keep you from getting skin cancer. It can also help prevent wrinkles and other aging effects caused by the sun. Make sure your children also follow these safeguards. Now is the time to start taking steps to prevent skin cancer.
When you are outdoors
Protect your skin when you go out during the day. Take safety steps whenever you go out to eat, run errands by car or on foot, or do any outdoor activity. There isn’t just one easy way to protect your skin. It’s best to follow all of these steps:
- Wear tightly woven clothing that covers your skin. Put on a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears, and scalp.
- Watch the clock. Try to stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. That's when the sun's rays are strongest.
- Head for the shade or create your own. Use an umbrella when sitting or strolling.
- Know that the sun’s rays can reflect off sand, water, and snow. This can harm your skin. Take extra care when you are near reflective surfaces.
- Keep in mind that even when the weather is hazy or cloudy, your skin can be exposed to strong UV rays.
- Shield your skin with sunscreen. Also use sunscreen on your children’s skin. Keep babies younger than 6 months old out of the sun.
Tips for using sunscreen
To help prevent skin cancer, choose the right sunscreen and use it correctly. Try these tips:
- Choose a sunscreen that has an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30. Also choose a sunscreen labeled "broad spectrum.” This will protect you from both UVA and UVB (ultraviolet A and B) rays.
- If one brand irritates your skin, try another, such as one without fragrance.
- Use a water-resistant sunscreen if you swim or sweat.
- Use at least 1 ounce of sunscreen to cover exposed areas. You might need to adjust the amount depending on your body size.
- Put the sunscreen on dry skin about 15 minutes before going outdoors. This gives it time to soak in.
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. If you’re active, do this more often.
- Cover any sun-exposed skin, from your face to your feet. Don’t forget your scalp, ears, and lips.
- Know that while sunscreen helps protect you, it isn’t enough. Sunscreens extend the length of time you can be outdoors before your skin starts to get red. But they don't give you total protection. Using sunscreen doesn't mean you can stay out in the sun for an unlimited time. Your skin cells are still being damaged. You should also wear protective clothing. And try to stay out of the sun as much as you can, especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
