Day 12 of Healthy, Beautiful Skin – Skin Cancer Protection Tips

The skin is the body’s largest organ and, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. And although we care for our skin in many different ways, it is common knowledge that applying sunscreen is one of the best methods of protection against skin cancer. The sunlight that reaches the earth is made up of Ultraviolet A and B rays. This is the “broad spectrum” sunscreen labels are referring to. Certain people are more susceptible to sunburns, but all skin tones react poorly to a large amount of sun exposure.

Quick Tips for Skin Love from the CDC

Try to stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV exposure is most hazardous.
Wear clothes to cover your arms and legs while in the sun.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat to help protect your face, neck, and ears.
Use sunglasses that filter both UVA and UVB rays.
Purchase a sunscreen that is at least SPF 15 or higher.
Avoid tanning beds.

Even when all precautions are used to prevent skin cancer, individuals should still have a regular screening once a month. If any part of a screening comes back abnormal, the doctor will most likely recommend a diagnosis screening.