Skin Cancer Prevention Tips

Skin cancer is a preventable form of cancer if detected early on so in order to be protected, you have to carry out sun safety practices and healthy changes to your lifestyle. These changes can help bring down your risk of developing cancer.

Of the many ways to prevent skin cancer,

The most effective is limiting your exposure to the sun especially when it comes to the peak hours. This ranges between 10 in the morning and pm. You need to seek shade whenever possible and avoid being exposed to the sun for a long time especially during mid-day. It is also recommended that you have a skin cancer check performed by a dermatologist from time to time so that any suspicious changes in your skin can be identified and investigated further. If you are spending time outdoors, you need to wear protective clothing so that your skin can be shielded from the harmful rays of the sun. You can wear clothing that has built-in UV protection. It is important to apply broad spectrum SPF higher than 30 or 50 to all exposed areas of the skin. This includes the hands, face, neck and ears. You have to apply this generously and make sure to reapply every two hours.

You have to apply sunscreen even when the day is cloudy.

You can wear water resistant sunscreen if you are swimming or sweating. Seeking shade is a good idea whenever possible. You can have an umbrella with you so that you don’t have to look for shelter all the time. This will limit the time spent under direct sunlight. This will be when UV exposure is at the highest. Tanning beds and sun lamps should be avoided as they emit harmful UV radiation that will damage your skin. It will also increase your skin cancer risk. If you want to achieve a tan, you can look at safer alternatives such as sunless tanning products or spray tans. This way, your skin doesn’t have to be exposed to harmful UV rays. Your eyes should be protected from UV radiation as well. You can choose sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. Look for sunglasses that can block both UVA and UVB so that your risk of developing macular degeneration, cataracts and other eye conditions can be reduced.

Somemedications can increase

The sensitivity of your skin to sunlight so that you will be susceptible to sunburn. This can be certain antifungals, antibiotics and diuretics. You have to check the labels of your medications and consult with a dermatologist if you are concerned about increased sun sensitivity. You have to examine your skin routinely so that you can monitor any irregularities in your skin. You need to understand the warning signs of skin cancer such as changes in moles, new lesions or areas of discomfort. If you detect any suspicious changes, you need to have prompt medical attention. You have to know what your risk factors are. This can be a history of sunburns, excessive exposure to the sun, fair skin, a weak immune system and a family history of skin cancer.