9 Ways to Lower the Risk of Skin Cancer
Skin is the largest organ of your body. It protects you, acting like a coat to your body, but is it also the one that is mostly exposed to the harsh environment. Skin cancer has especially become more of a problem ever since the rapid take-over of global warming and pollution, which now make standing in the sun so dangerous. Here are some tips that could protect your skin in the fight against skin cancer.
- Shade the Skin
Use measures that will put some shade on your skin, like seeking shade under trees or make your own shade by using an umbrella, a wide brimmed hat or a shirt. Clothing that covers your arms and legs are also highly recommended. The clothing fabric needs to have a tight weave rather than loose, to block the light from reaching the skin. Don’t forget the sunglasses with UV protection.
- Don’t Stay Too Much in the Sun
Hours like 11am-4pm are the most dangerous because that is when the UV rays from the sun are the strongest.
- Don’t Forget About Reflection
Although it is not as damaging as the actual sun ray, a reflection can hold up to 80% of the damaging effect cast by the sun rays.
- Watch Out for Clouds
Sun rays can go through light clouds, mist and fog, and still create 80% of its damage. This means that even if there’s a cloudy day outside, you can still get a sunburn.
- Never Forget About Sunscreen
You need to apply sunscreen with SPF 15-30 before you go outside, and also reapply it at least every two hours. You need to do it even more often if you’re swimming, working out or playing. Choose a sunscreen that can protect you against both UVA and UVB radiation.
- Protect your Children
Sun rays can be especially harmful if you are exposed to them at an early age. Children that are under one year should be kept out of any direct sunlight, and children between 1 and 6 years old need to wear skin protection in the form of sunscreen, wide brim hats and clothes that cover their body.
- Stay Away From Sunlamps and Tanning Salons
Sometimes, the most harm is the one you can do yourself. Sunlamps and tanning lights emit most of all UVA radiations, which can be from 2 to 5 times more powerful than direct sunlight. These radiations can cause sunburns, premature aging and skin cancer.
- Protect the Eyes
UV radiation that hits your eye can damage your eye structure, leaving you susceptible to developing cataracts or even skin cancer on the eyelid.
- Be Careful about Moles
If you notice that a mole or your freckles go through sudden changes, like changing the shape, color, or they’re starting to itch, it is recommended that you seek out your doctor immediately.
While you cannot avoid going into the sun completely, it is recommended that you follow these pieces of advice in order to reduce the risk of coming down with skin cancer.
