Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime? Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, yet most skin cancers can be prevented.
Here are a few tips to help your skin stay safe this summer:
1. Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow the ingredients to fully bind to the skin. Reapplication of sunscreen is just as important as putting it on in the first place, so reapply the same amount every two hours. Sunscreens should also be reapplied immediately after swimming, toweling off, or sweating.
2. Roughly one ounce of sunscreen is needed to cover the exposed areas of the body–don’t skimp!
3. Long-sleeved shirts and clothing that reaches the ankles are a great way to block the sun’s rays. There is also a variety of breezy clothing with built-in sun protection.
3. Wear sunglasses whenever possible. Bright sunlight can damage your eyes as well as your skin. Pick a pair of shades with lenses that block 100% of the sun’s UV rays.
4. Staying in the shade is also a great way to block the rays. Umbrellas, shade tents, and awnings make a big difference when you bring them along to parks, concerts, and festivals.
5. Metal containing sunscreens (look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide in the ingredient list) are the most effective sunscreens.
Have fun this summer and stay safe!