May is here, bringing much needed sunlight and warmer temperatures to Northeast Ohio. But increased sunlight also means increased exposure to the sun’s harmful rays, which is a major cause of skin cancer. That’s why the Skin Cancer Foundation has chosen May as National Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Skin cancer is a serious disease that can be life-threatening, and people of all ages and backgrounds are at risk. But in most cases, skin cancer can be prevented.

Your role in skin cancer prevention

You can act today to help prevent skin cancer. Start by avoiding the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) rays. And stay away from tanning beds. These 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 preventive steps against skin cancer.

Staying protected when you are outdoors

Protect your skin when you go outdoors during the day. Take precautions 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 avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when it is 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 apply sunscreen to your children’s skin.

Tips for using sunscreen

To help prevent skin cancer, choose the right sunscreen and use it correctly. Try the following tips:

• Choose a sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Also choose a sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum.” This will shield you from both UVA and UVB (ultraviolet A and B) rays.
• If one brand irritates your skin, try another, particularly ones without fragrance.
• Use a water-resistant sunscreen if you swim or sweat.
• Use at least an ounce of sunscreen to cover exposed areas. This is enough to fill a shot glass. You might need to adjust the amount depending on your body size.
• Apply the sunscreen to dry skin about 15 minutes before going outdoors. This gives it time to be absorbed.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours. If you’re active, do this more often.
• Cover any sun-exposed skin, from your face to your feet. Don’t forget your ears and your 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 begins to redden, but they don't give you total protection. Using sunscreen doesn't mean you can stay out in the sun indefinitely. Damage to the skin cells is still occurring. 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.

Source: The Staywell Company, LLC.