According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the leading cause of cancer in the U.S., and the number of cases continues to rise steadily. Several steps can be taken to prevent skin cancer, such as using sunblock, limiting sun exposure altogether, avoiding tanning beds and tan-accelerating agents, and doing self exams on your skin as well as getting professional exams.
Slip on a Shirt
To block skin from the sun, the American Cancer Society uses the mantra "Slip! Slop! Slap! and Wrap!" First, slip on a shirt. Covering the skin protects it from the sun's rays. Special photo-protective fabrics offer additional protection.
Slop on Sunscreen
Physical sunscreens sit on top of the skin and block the sun's rays. Chemical sunscreens absorb the sun's rays before skin damage occurs. All sunscreens have an SPF, or sun protection factor, with higher numbers indicating more protection.
The Mayo Clinic suggests sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or greater. Proper application includes using an amount filling a shot glass, or one-quarter of a 4 oz. bottle; rubbing it in well; applying it 30 minutes before going outdoors; and reapplying at least every two hours you're outdoors. Use sunscreen daily all year long, even on cloudy days, as clouds do not stop harmful rays.
Slap on a Hat
A hat with a 2- to 3-inch brim all around protects best, covering the ears, eyes, forehead, nose and scalp. Caps with fabric draping down the neck provide both head and neck protection. While baseball-type caps protect portions of the head, the neck and ears remain exposed, and skin cancers commonly develop in these areas.
Wrap on Sunglasses
Sunglasses protect the eyes from potential sun damage. For best protection, use glasses that block 99 percent to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation, or UltravioletA and UltravioletB, which come in the sun's rays. Large-frame sunglasses protect the eyes from sunlight coming in from different angles.
Avoid Intense Sun Exposure and Tanning Products
The sun's rays vary in intensity throughout the day, peaking between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; avoiding the sun during this time protects the skin. Avoid tanning beds altogether as they emit UVA and UVB rays. The American Association of Dermatology stresses "there is no safe way to tan." Tanning lamps and tan-accelerating agents also can be bad for the skin.
Skin Exams
Self skin exams involve looking at the skin using a mirror, including the genital area, between the buttocks and between the toes. Seek medical care for new growths as well as changes in existing moles, freckles, bumps or birthmarks.
Skin exams performed by a health care professional involve fully inspecting the skin, including areas normally covered by undergarments. Expect use of a bright light or a magnifying lens. The American Cancer Society recommends complete professional skin exams annually after age 40, more often if at high risk. Use the search function on the American Academy of Dermatology's homepage to find free skin exams.
