How to Minimize Your Risk of Getting Skin Cancer

The warmer months mean covering up less and spending more time outdoors. Sunlight is essential in our emotional well-being. Although it's good for us, it can be harmful when we overexpose ourselves to it. We can usually prevent skin cancer by avoiding overexposure to the sun. We need very little time in the sun to get the benefits from the vitamin D it provides. We don't need to bake it in.

If you grew up in the 70's and 80's, you will likely remember putting on that greasy oil that smelled like coconut and basking in the sun for hours to achieve a golden tan. Well, the wrinkles we have now are most likely due to the fact that this oil slick contained no protection from UV rays.

We have known for some time now that the sun can hurt us. When you plan outdoor activities try to find shaded areas to play and socialize in. Wear a broad-brimmed hat and clothing with a tight weave. Wear sunglasses with 100% UV ray protection. If it's very hot and difficult to cover up, make sure to use sun screen. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) should be at least 15. It should have both UVA and UVB protection. I have worn sun screen on most of my exposed skin 365 days a year for several years now. Although I'm 35, I'm told I look like I'm in my 20's. This bonus alone makes slathering on a bit of sun screen every day worth it.

Certain medications can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. Pay special attention to the special notes on your meds, and if you are unsure, ask your doctor. Even with the use of sun screen when you are taking these medications, you are very likely to burn.

Another culprit of damaging UV rays is the tanning bed. Tanning beds can be very dangerous. Most of these beds release dangerous levels of UV radiation. In fact, the beds emit from 50% to 100% the amount of UV rays than natural sunlight. This greatly increases the risk of skin cancer. Tanning beds have caused suppression of the immune system and corneal damage.

My best advice is to spend a little time in the sun and more time in the shade. Tanning beds are a big no-no. Take your sun screen with you and re-apply as needed to stay protected all day. Take steps daily to protect your skin and you will be more likely to avoid skin cancer.