About Skin Cancer

There are two types of skin cancer, melanoma and nonmelanoma. Melanoma is the most serious and begins in the cells that cause your skin to tan from pigmentation. Nonmelanoma cases are the most common and include several types, the most common of which are Basal Cell Carcinoma, a slow-growing form of skin cancer and Squamous Cell Carcinoma, which can grow inside of the body. Skin cancer kills one person per hour.

The absolute best way to prevent against skin cancer is to not burn. The following tips can reduce your exposure and keep you healthy for longer.

Wear Protection

Anytime you go out, you should wear sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 15, which you reapply every few hours, especially after you swim and even when you don't see the sun. Even though sunscreen doesn't filter out all UV rays, it can provide a layer of protection. Look for sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection since it offers better protection.

Also, wear clothes that cover your skin. Wear a hat and sunglasses outside. If you'll be in the sunlight for long lengths of time, wear long sleeved clothing to fully block out rays. You can burn even in the winter if your skin is exposed. Make sure that your sunglasses block UV rays since they can be especially damaging to your eyes, which is why you have to wear goggles if you ever tan in a tanning bed. 

Seek Protection

Try to stay inside when sunlight is at its strongest, around 11-1. However, even as early as 10 and as late as 4, make sure you sit in the shade. Even an umbrella offers some protection from the sun. Not only will you be more comfortable, but you'll also sweat less, so there's less opportunity for your sunscreen to wash off. Sitting in the shade can go a little bit further to keep your skin from soaking up UV rays.

Other Protection Measures

If you see any changing moles or a growth, go to your health care professional so he or she can help you get it tested so you can receive a diagnosis. Avoid tanning beds, which mimic the same UV light as the sun and can soak your skin in damaging radiation. Don't tan intentionally.

Remember, you only have one body. Approximately one in five people will get skin cancer. Do what you can to protect your skin.