posted May 5, 2014, 6:48 AM by lhartkopf@rsu20.org
| We’re all excited for summer, but if you’ve got new sandals and old-fashioned sun-protection habits, it’s time to reprioritize. | If you’re a man or woman ove r 40, check your sun-protection habits. The rate of skin cancer among men and women 40 to 60 years old increased nearly eightfold from 1970 to 2009.
"Sun protection and avoidance are the most effective forms of prevention from skin cancer," explains Cleveland Clinic dermatologist Melissa Piliang, M.D. However, some adults aren't fans of messy creams or lotions. One solution, suggests Piliang, is to wear sun protective clothing and hats with a wide brim that extend all the way around (not baseball hats). And while some adults do use sunscreen regularly, many aren't using it correctly. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), people who get sunburned don’t use enough sunscreen, don’t reapply it after being in the sun, or use expired products.
Make sure you’re staying sun safe by following the latest guidelines:- Use new sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or more, is water resistant, and provides broad-spectrum coverage against both UVA and UVB rays (for example).
- Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before you go outside. If you apply sunscreen when you’re already in the sun, you may burn.
- Adults need at least an ounce of sunscreen for adequate protection (that’s the amount that would fill a shot glass).
- Apply sunscreen to all bare skin (and don’t forget a lip balm with SPF).
- Reapply your sunscreen often — especially after swimming or sweating.
Remember, your skin can get burned even when it’s cloudy or cool outside. Minimize sun exposure by scheduling outdoor activities before10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. (avoiding the time of day when the sun’s rays are strongest).
| You may also want to know:
Feed your face for healthy skin
5 rules for super skin
Keep cool with our favorite summer product picks
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Source: Cleveland Clinic Wellness |
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