Sun Safety and Skin Cancer Prevention: What You Need to Know

With the summer season on the horizon, we’re all excited to enjoy the sunshine and spend hours outside again. While everyone loves to be in the sun after a long, cold Midwestern winter, it’s important to remember that too much sun can often do more harm than good. What should you be aware of as we head into warmer, sunnier days?

• Check regularly for early signs of sun damage and skin cancer.
• Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, and apply it thoroughly every 2 hours while outside. 
• Clothing and shade also provide important sun protection.
• Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider if you notice abnormal moles or other skin concerns.

At OccuMed Primary Care, our team is dedicated to helping you and your family stay happy and healthy—and that includes understanding the risks of sun damage and practicing important methods of preventative care.

What Are Early Signs of Sun Damage to Watch For?

Many early signs of sun damage include pigmentation changes in the skin, such as new freckles, dark spots or “sun spots,” or uneven skin tones. Skin that feels dry or rough, particularly in places that are routinely exposed to the sun like the hands, face, and neck, as well as sensitive or irritable skin that easily becomes red or tender can also be an indicator of damage.

Chronic sores on the skin, meanwhile, can be an indicator not just of damage but of precancerous cells. Sun damage may develop into skin cancer, with warning signs including abnormal moles that may be asymmetrical, have strange edges, or change in size, shape, or color. Other signs can present themselves as sores that don’t fully heal or significant changes in pigmentation.

How to Choose and Apply Sunscreen Correctly

Sunscreen provides great protection against both sun damage and skin cancer. But with so many options, which type of sunscreen will be most effective? In general, a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is a good starting point. You may want to consider a higher SPF depending on your skin type and quickness to burn.

You should always apply at least 1 ounce of sunscreen to exposed skin at least 15 minutes prior to going out in the sun to provide maximum protection. After two hours outdoors, you should reapply to continue preventing sunburn or damage.

How Do Clothing and Shade Reduce Sun Risks?

Other preventative measures against sun damage are proper clothing coverage and shade. Wearing lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants when needed can provide greater protection against the sun. You may also want to invest in sunglasses with UV protection, a wide-brimmed hat to cover your face and neck, and lightweight shoes that cover your feet.

Of course, when temperatures are high, you may want to dress in cooler clothing. Applying sunscreen and utilizing shade, like trees, gazebos, and umbrellas, can help you prevent damage to your skin. Shade becomes especially important during the hottest times of the day, when the sun is most intense; if you’re outside between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., make sure you have access to shade to get relief from the sun’s rays.

When Should You Schedule a Skin Check With Your Provider?

If you have any concerns or have noticed any potential early signs of skin cancer, such as new moles, changes in existing moles, or unusual growths, it is crucial to schedule a skin check with a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Early detection is key to successful treatment. Even if you haven’t noticed any specific issues, routine checkups and professional screenings are a good idea to ensure that your skin is healthy and to catch any potential problems before they become more serious.

Stay Summer-Ready With OccuMed Primary Care

With preventative care, proper protection, and regular screenings, you can enjoy the sun with a lower risk of developing sun damage. Whether you need advice on sun protection or an evaluation of potential skin problems, you can always turn to our experienced team at OccuMed Primary Care to help you find a treatment that will meet your needs. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.