Today we want to share 5 skin cancer prevention tips. Sun protection should be an everyday habit that everyone is used to by now, but there are still some people out there who don’t understand how damaging the sun can be on their skin. One of the biggest risks of sun exposure is skin cancer, as a result of too many UV rays. To lower your risk for skin cancer, here are five important prevention tips you should be exercising.
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Limiting Time Outside
To avoid a trip to Dermatology in Utah, you should avoid direct sunlight between the hours of 10 A.M. and 4 P.M., as these are the peak sun hours in North America. If you do have to spend time outside during these hours, be sure to wear clothing that covers the arms and legs that are both airy and light so that your skin can breathe. It’s also important to wear sunblock on the parts that are still exposed to the sun.
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Wearing Sunscreen
It can’t be repeated often enough: put on sunscreen when you go outside, even if it’s a cloudy day. The lowest SPF sunblock you should use is SPF 30, and it needs to be reapplied every two hours because your sweat will naturally reduce its protection. If you’re swimming, then the sunblock should be reapplied more often. There are even waterproof sunblocks out there since you can still get sunburned even when you’re underwater.
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Wearing Protective Clothing
It’s a good idea to wear sun-protective clothing that has an ultraviolet protection factor of at least 50+. This should block at least 98% of the sun’s rays, further protecting your skin and ensuring you’re not at risk for skin cancer. Wear hats with wide brims to protect the skin on your face and neck, as these areas can receive the most amount of sun.
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Checking Your Skin Regularly
You can do this on your own or under the advisement of a dermatologist. Examining your skin on a regular basis will keep you abreast of any changes that are happening to your skin; when you do notice a difference, go to a dermatologist immediately to get it checked out. The last thing you should do is ignore it; this will only increase the chances of those changes getting worse.
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Avoid Tanning Beds
There’s never a reason to go to a tanning salon. The tanning beds use so much UV light that they damage your skin much faster than the sun and also further increase your risk of cancer. If you really want that glowing look, there’s nothing wrong with using some spray tan that easily washes off in the shower.
Any changes in your skin, such as sunburn, tan, or freckle, is dangerous for your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. Speak to your dermatologist or medical professional if you have any concerns about any skin abnormalities you might have. Skin cancer is quite treatable, especially when it’s caught in the early stages and before it’s had the chance to spread.
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