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May is Melanoma Awareness Month - Protect Your Skin
Sunburn is just one of the dangers of overexposure to the sun's rays. As we enter beach season, it is important to know the facts and steps you can take to help protect you and your family from skin cancers and sun damaged skin.
Facts:
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States.
One in five Americans will develop skin cancer during the course of a lifetime
About 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun
Up to 90% of the visual signs of aging are caused by the sun
You can have fun in the sun while decreasing your risk by following these tips:
Generously apply a broad-spectrum (protection from both UVA and UVB rays) sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher before you leave your home. Remember to reapply every 2 hours. If you will be in the water or sweating, use a water-resistant sunscreen.
Check the expiration date on your sunscreen. If it has expired, toss it out. If it does not have a date on it and you have had it more than a year or it has changed in consistency, odor or color, discard it.
Don't forget to protect your lips with sunblock specially formulated for lips.
Wear protective clothing whenever possible. Such items include clothing with built in SPF, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection. If you are particularly sensitive to the sun, or you are on medicines that increase sun sensitivity, you may also want to wear a long-sleeve shirt and pants.
Limit time outdoors during the sun's peak hours, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Also note that when near water, snow or sand, the sun's rays reflect and can increase your chance of sunburn.
Avoid tanning beds.
Moles, bumps or other marks may appear on your skin as a result of repeated sun exposure. If any of these marks have an irregular or jagged border, or if you notice any changes, growths or bleeding, have the area examined by your dermatologist. To find out more about your skin's condition and ways to protect it, call Renew Dermatology at 804-440-3376.
