Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. In Canada, around one-third of all new cancer cases are skin cancers, and the rate continues to rise.
Skin cancer is preventable by practicing sun safety and avoiding skin damage. This informative guide will discuss the simple and easy steps you can take to protect yourself from skin cancer.
Generously Apply Sunscreen
Cover all exposed skin with sunscreen. Use broad-spectrum and water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Furthermore, do not forget to use an SPF lip balm to protect your lips.
Wear Protective Clothing
When the UV index is 3 or higher, it is vital to protect your skin as much as possible. Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants. To protect your scalp and neck, wear hats. Also, make sure your sunglasses protect against UVA and UVB rays.
Seek Shade
Limit your time in the sun. It is important to keep out of the sun and heat between 11 AM and 3 PM. The UV index during these hours can be 3 or higher. When your shadow is shorter than you, the sun is very strong. Look for shade if you are outside. Examples of shade areas include partial roofs, parks with big trees, umbrellas, awnings, and gazebo tents.
Avoid Using Tanning Equipment
UV radiation from tanning beds damages your skin and increases your risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Avoid Sunburns
Avoid sunburns as they significantly increase an individual’s lifetime risk of developing skin cancer. Many skin cancer studies show that individuals who have suffered many severe sunburns in childhood are at greater risk of developing skin cancer (Canada, 2018).
If you ever have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us. We are here to help.