Relax, Enjoy, and Be Sun Safe this Summer

Summer is nearly here! Are you as excited as we are to get outdoors and enjoy these longer, warmer days? Whether you're planning an exhilarating hike, a relaxing beach day, or simply spending time in your own backyard, it's essential to keep your skin protected from the sun's harmful rays. Don't worry, though - staying safe in the sun can be easy and enjoyable with these simple tips.

First things first, seek shade during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the sun's rays are strongest. If you're out and about, make sure to lather up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30 on all exposed skin. Make sure to pick up a fresh bottle, rather than using the one you opened last summer, as the protective ingredients degrade over time. And don't forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that contains sunscreen.

Remember, sunscreen needs a little refreshment from time to time. Reapply it every two hours, or even more frequently if you're swimming or engaging in physically demanding activities. To add an extra layer of protection, sport some cool and stylish gear like wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun's rays.

Why is all this protection important? Well, safeguarding our skin is one of the best preventive measures we can take against skin cancer.

According to National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine, each year in the United States, nearly 5 million people are treated for skin cancer, and melanoma, its most deadly form, is responsible for nearly 9,000 deaths annually. Melanoma the second most common cancer among young adults aged 15-29, and the majority of cases can be attributed to sun exposure. So, let's be proactive and take care of our skin.

Keep an eye out for any unusual skin growths or changes in existing moles. Performing regular self-checks empowers you to catch skin cancer early when it's most treatable. Melanomas can occur anywhere on the body. Learning what to look for on your own skin gives you the power to detect cancer early when it’s easiest to cure, before it can become dangerous.

Talk with your doctor for more information of sun safety and melanoma cancer. Learn more here. Remember, early detection can save lives!

If you want to dive deeper into sun safety and melanoma, it's always a good idea to have a chat with your doctor. They can provide you with more information and guidance tailored to your specific needs.

Let's make the most of summer, enjoy the sun, and keep our skin safe and healthy.