Skin Cancer Prevention Tips

May is Skin Cancer Awareness month and a great time to remember all the important ways to protect your skin when the sun comes out of winter hiding, and the weather warms up. Here are some tips for keeping your skin healthy during the summer months from Dr. Laura Jordan at Dermatology Partners.

• Remember your sun protection
  • Mineral sunblock (rather than chemical sunscreen) containing zinc and/or titanium, SPF of 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours when exposed to the sun for long periods of time, after getting wet, and after sweating. Note: the sunscreen in your facial moisturizer is likely not enough. Throw on that extra coat of sunblock for good measure.
  • Wide brim hats to protect the top of your head, face, ears, and neck.
  • Sun protective clothing (known as UPF, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor).
  • Don’t forget your sunglasses
  • Seek shade when appropriate, remember that the sun’s rays are strongest during 10am-2pm
  • Be aware of any new or changing spots on your body, including wounds that won’t seem to heal, or pimples that don’t want to go away
  • Don’t forget to see your dermatologist for regular skin exams