Whatever skin you’re in…choose your cover-Protect yourself from skin cancer

Protect the skin you’re in.

Each year, approximately one million skin cancers are detected. Scientists believe that reducing exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can decrease the risk of skin cancer.

Americans want to know how they can protect their skin while still having fun outdoors. Meteorologists can play an important role in giving Americans the information they need to protect themselves from UV rays year-round.

Inside is information you can share with family and friends to help them protect themselves from the sun. Avoiding the sun during the midday hours provides the best defense from skin cancer. However if you can’t avoid the midday sun remember that choosing a cover can protect the skin you’re in.

Choose your cover:

More and more people are looking for the ways to protect themselves from the sun’s UV rays. Forunately, there are many year-round options to protect one’s skin. So let your family and friends know about these sun-protection tips.

Rub it on:

Remember to bring sunscreen everywhere, not just to the pool or the beach. Many burns occur when outdoor activities last longer than expected. Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, generously apply it 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply it frequently throughout day, especially after swimming or exercise. For people who don’t like lotions, there are other varieties: creams, gels, wipes and sprays.

Seek Shade:

Whenever possible avoid the midday sun when UV rays are the strongest and do the most  damage. When you’re outdoors, trees, beach umbrellas or tents are good sources of shade. Use these options to prevent a burn, not after you need relief. If you can’t avoid the midday sun or find shade, at least try to take a break from the sun during the day.

Use your head:

Not all protection comes in a bottle. So it’s smart to use your head when you’re out in the sun. Up to 80% of skin cancers occur on the head and neck, so a wide-brimmed hat is a great way to shade your face, ears, scalp and neck from the sun’s rays. A hat with a four-inch brim provides the most protection. If you choose the baseball cap also use sun-screen with an SPF of at least 15 to protect your exposed ears and neck.

Too much sun hurts:

You know that too many skin burns can increase your child’s risk of skin cancer later in life? Kids don’t have to be at the pool, beach or on vacation to get too much sun.

Shield your skin:

When you’re enjoying your favorite outdoor activities, it’s important to shield your skin. A shirt, beach cover up or pants with a tight weave are all good choices for cover. Keep in mind however that a typical T-shirt usually has an SPF that is much lower than the recommended SPF 15. So add some shade or sunscreen-especially if your clothes don’t completely cover your skin.

Grab your shade:

Grabbing a pair of shade is more than cool; it’s also the best way to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Sunglasses protect the tender skin around the eyes and reduce the risk of developing cataracts. For maximum protection, look for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. And try wrap-around lenses, which keep UV rays from sneaking in at the sides.

Whatever skin you’re in… choose your cover. For more information about protecting your family and friends from skin cancer, contact:

1-800-328-3838

State Cancer Website:

http://www.state.nj.us/health/cancer

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Office of Cancer Control and Protection pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information provided. Please call the above number or email them for more information.