Don’t Go on a Walk Without Your Sunblock!

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, “it is estimated that nearly 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every day.” Summertime is the easiest time to skip proper care of your skin. However, your chances of getting skin cancer are increased by not taking care of your skin.

The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention offers a list of things you should do to take care of your skin:

• Do not burn or tan
  • Avoid intentional tanning.
  • Avoid tanning beds.
• Seek shade
  • The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Wear protective clothing
  • Long-sleeved shirt and pants.
  • A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Generously apply sunscreen
  • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for protection from ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
  • Apply 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours.
• Use extra caution near water, snow, and sand
  • These surfaces reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
• Get Vitamin D safely
  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Take vitamin supplements.

Early detection of melanoma can save your life. Be sure to examine your skin at least once a month. If you find a new or changing spot, contact your dermatologist to schedule an appointment.

Written by: Meagan Van Stone