Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Getting a Jump On It
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and with less than a fortnight to go until then we thought it’d be a good idea to get a jump on things with an early post. Why? Because the sooner you begin practicing sun-safety, the better! So…
What is Melanoma?
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the entire world, and Melanoma is its worst form. Like all skin cancers though, it’s easy to prevent if you take a few simple precautions. It’s also usually treatable if caught early enough. If it’s not, however, it can be fatal. The good news though is that, unlike other cancers, Melanoma is very often visible on your skin pretty much right from the start. So if you see any new moles or blemishes, or even changes to any that were already there, please quickly bring them to the attention of your doctor or dermatologist.
What Can I do to Protect Myself From Skin Cancer?
The most important tool in staving off the sun skin damage caused by harmful UV rays is sunscreen and shade cover. There are many types available for you to choose from, but make sure that whatever you buy has a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30. Wear it every day whenever you go outside, drive, or spend time indoors at home or at work near windows. It’s also vital to re-apply your sunscreen at least every two hours. Even sooner than that if you’re sweating or swimming.
Make sure to wear as much protective clothing as possible. That means long-sleeved shirts, long pants, wide-brimmed hats or ball caps and sunglasses. If you’re wearing flip-flops, remember to coat your feet in sunscreen. It’s no joke. Renowned singer Bob Marley passed away from Melanoma that began in his toe.
Tanning Causes Wrinkles, Sun Spots and Permanent Damage
Yes. By all means, never go tanning. Not naturally, and certainly not in a tanning booth. It’s not worth it. Even if you’re lucky enough to avoid skin cancer, long or even short term sun exposure will lead to prematurely-aged skin, wrinkles, sunspots and more. Those are permanent, so even if it’s just for the sake of vanity, pass on tanning. Any reason to not tan is a good enough reason.
If you are outside, always opt to stay in shade whenever possible. Trees and awnings are great for that.
Skin Cancer Awareness Month: May and Beyond
While we’ve already stated that May is the month designated for Melanoma awareness, it’s important to continue practicing your sun-safety measures the whole year ‘round. That includes autumn and winter, too. And remember, the weather during any season is irrelevant. Those UV rays are always around, even when the sun isn’t visible.
Thank you, and enjoy a sun-safe spring!
Sundicators: The Best Skin-surance Under the Sun!
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I did not know that May was Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Also, to prevent is to wear sunscreen every time you go outside. Even if you are just walking to your car and not planning to be outside long. It is always better to be safe.