Spending time outside is a great way to stay physically active, reduce stress, and improve your vitamin D levels. While enjoying the sunshine is important for your health, it is also important to protect your skin. Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States with over 5 million people treated for it each year. Fortunately, most skin cancers are preventable.
Consider these tips as you head outside this month:
Limit sun exposure
The hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. are the most hazardous for UV exposure. You can reduce your risk of skin damage by seeking shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter before you need relief from the sun.
Apply and reapply sunscreen
Put on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15
or higher before you go outside, even on cloudy days. Sunscreen wears off, so be sure to reapply it if you stay out in the sun for more than two hours. Don’t forget to check the expiration date.
Wear protective clothing
When possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect your skin. Clothes made from tightly woven fabric offer the best protection. A wet T-shirt offers much less UV protection than a dry one. Darker colors may offer more protection than lighter colors. If wearing this type of clothing isn’t practical, at least try to wear a T-shirt or beach cover-up.
Wear a (wide-brimmed) hat
For the most protection, wear a hat with a brim all the way around that shades your face, ears, and the back of your neck. Avoid straw hats with holes that let sunlight through.
6 tips to drink more water:
Getting enough water every day is important for your health. This is especially true during the summer months. Consider the tips below to help you consume more water during the day:
- Carry a water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day.
- Freeze some freezer safe water bottles. Take one with you for ice-cold water all day long.
- Choose water when eating out. You’ll save money and reduce calories.
- Add flavor to your water with a wedge of lime or lemon.
- Consume foods with high water such as watermelon, cucumber, apples, and lettuce.
Slip on sunglasses
Sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts. They also protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure. Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best protection.
A change in your skin is the most common sign of skin cancer. This could be a new growth, a sore that doesn’t heal, or a change in a mole. Not all skin cancers look the same. Speak with a medical provider if you have any concerns about your skin. In the meantime, stay cool, stay hydrated, and enjoy your summer!
Source: CDC.gov
