Summer sun
Protect your skin from sun damage
SUMMER IS ALMOST HERE and that means more outdoor time for Kentuckians. Whether you’re tending your garden, fishing at the lake or cheering at Little League games, make sure you protect yourself and your family from harmful sun exposure.
The three most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas form on the outermost layer of the skin and are caused by long-term or frequent heavy exposure to the sun. Melanomas develop in the melanocytes of the skin—the cells that produce melanin and give your skin its color. This type of skin cancer is the deadliest. It can be caused by bad sunburns, and those who regularly use tanning beds are also at greater risk.
The best treatment for skin cancer is prevention, ideally beginning in youth and continuing throughout life. Even one bad sunburn during childhood can cause skin cancer issues years later. Here are some skin protection tips:
Use sunscreen daily. Make sunscreen a part of your daily routine. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15. Reapply every two hours when you’re outside, and more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
Stay in the shade, if possible. Be aware that the sun’s UV rays can reflect off bright surfaces—like concrete, sand and snow—and cause skin damage if you’re not wearing sunscreen.
Wear a hat and UV-protective clothing. Choose a hat with a wide brim that shades your face, head, ears and neck. Rash guards are a good choice for children and active adults.
Wear sunglasses. Make sure they’re designed to block both UVA and UVB rays.
Avoid the brightest time of day. Try timing outdoor activities during off-peak hours if possible. UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Skin cancer can happen to anyone, regardless of skin color. If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, including new spots, spots that appear different from others, or spots that persist or are changing, itching or bleeding, make an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist.
JOHN D’ORAZIO, M.D., is chief of the Division of Hematology/Oncology in the UK Department of Pediatrics.
