According to the CDC, "UV rays from sunlight are the greatest during the late spring and early summer in North America." While fighting cancer with good skin care practices is a year-round job, it is especially important during this time. Read on for spring skin care tips that will help you fight and prevent the possibility of skin cancer.
Cover Up
Whether you are at the beach or just having an afternoon jog, there is always the potential for experiencing an extreme sunburn. Cover up with:
- A hat
- Sunglasses
- Clothes that do not expose your arms and legs
Shading exposed skin is very beneficial and can protect you if you are going to be in and out of the sun all day. Make sure you take these items with you to the beach and anywhere else where you're planning to spend an hour or more outdoors. Dark colors can actually help protect you from the sun's rays even more as they absorb less light.
Lather Up
Make sure you wear sunscreen "with sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher, and both UVA and UVB protection" even if you are just going to be outside for a little while. It is important to remember that sunscreen isn't only for the beach or pool; during spring, sunscreen can be necessary all the time, especially if you have fair skin. The NIH for Senior Health states that you should also consider wearing lipscreen or lip balm/stick that promises UVA and UVB protection.
Don't Forget to Moisturize
Moisturizing is something you should do every day, according to the National Institute on Aging. If you are particularly concerned about the possibility of skin cancer, it is important to make sure you add a gentle moisturizer with SPF protection into your daily skin care routine. This can also help with dry or itchy skin as well.
Avoid Tanning
It is chiefly important during this time that you do not use tanning beds or lamps as the sun will already be taking its toll on your skin. Remember that, even on cloudy days, the sun can still be damaging, its strongest effects are between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM.
Want More Spring Skin Care and Cancer Fighting Tips?
Contact Dr. Matthew D. Barrows at 972-390-9002. We have several Texas offices all open for dermatology consultations and can give you an analysis of your skin care needs today.
