Skin cancer is one type of cancer that can be relatively easy to avoid. If you learn how to limit your exposure to UV rays, you can cut back on your potential risk for this type of cancer quite dramatically.
Slather on the sunscreen: This is the number one rule in the prevention of skin cancer. If you are going to be in the direct sunlight or even if you are going to be outside at all, slather on the sunscreen. This is a mistake that many people made in their youth as they either avoided sunscreen or went for an option that had far too little coverage. Though you may think that a tan is the most important thing, you will thank yourself later on if use sunscreen to avoid the possibility of skin cancer. So put on a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and keep on reapplying to ensure that you are always protected.
Cover up with the right clothing: You have to be diligent about protecting yourself when it comes to avoiding skin cancer. Though sunscreen is the most important thing, you also want to be sure to use the right clothing. Go for protective clothing and accessories including sunglasses, a hat, and clothes that will help you to cover up where sunscreen may be missed. Sure you can enjoy some time in a bathing suit, but you should also bring along some protective clothes whenever possible as well.
Avoid exposure to ultraviolet radiation: There was a time when tanning beds were all the rage, but that was before there was all the education on them that there is now. We know just how bad tanning beds and other sources of ultraviolet radiation can be. The prolonged exposure over time is what helps to lead to skin cancer, so do your best to eliminate or at least limit yours. Even avoiding a sunburn can be your best bet in avoiding the potential risks.
Stay in the shade whenever possible: Though it’s unrealistic to think that you will never have exposure to the sun, do your best to stay in the shade whenever possible. Even if you are in an outdoor atmosphere most of the time in the warmer months, be sure to get in your shade time whenever possible. The less exposure to direct sunlight, the better. This will ensure that you avoid any potential risk of skin cancer and keep yourself protected at all times.
Avoid the midday sun: If you are going to be out in the sun, be aware of what time of day you get your exposure. Do your very best to avoid midday exposure between 10am-2pm. This is the time that the sun is highest in the sky and also the strongest. This also means that your potential for taking in harmful UV rays is the highest, so do your best to stay out of the sun during this potentially dangerous timeframe.
Even if you’re a sun worshipper, you want to do your best to avoid the potential risk for skin cancer. Taking these simple measures will help to protect you and ensure your longevity.
Mary M. Frederick writes about how to get a master of health education degree.