Shield your skin: Effective ways to prevent skin cancer

Skin cancer is a serious health concern that occurs when skin cells become damaged, most commonly from exposure to harmful UV rays from the sun or tanning beds.

Although skin cancer can occur in individuals of all ages and skin types, those with fair skin and a history of excessive sun exposure are at a higher risk. The good news is that there're many ways to prevent skin cancer. By taking proactive measures and implementing healthy habits, individuals can reduce their risk of developing skin cancer and protect their skin from damage.

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How to prevent skin cancer?

Here are five ways:

#1 Wear protective clothing

One of the most effective ways to prevent skin cancer is to wear protective clothing when outside. That includes wearing long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to protect the face and eyes from harmful UV rays.

Clothing with a tight weave also offers additional protection from the sun. If possible, try to avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 am and 4 pm.

#2 Use sunscreen

Using sunscreen regularly is another important step in preventing skin cancer. It's recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Sunscreen should be applied for 15-30 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours or more frequently if sweating or swimming. Don't forget to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including the face, ears, neck, and hands.

#3 Avoid tanning beds

1. Tanning beds emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause skin cancer.
2. The intensity of UV radiation in tanning beds is often several times higher than the intensity of natural sunlight, which means using a tanning bed can increase risk of skin cancer even more than spending time in the sun.
3. People who use tanning beds before the age of 35 have a 75% higher risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
4. In addition to increasing risk of skin cancer, using tanning beds can also cause premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin.
5. The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified tanning beds as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning that they are known to cause cancer in humans.

#4 Be aware of skin changes

Early detection is critical when it comes to treating skin cancer. By being aware of any changes in your skin, you can detect potential issues early on.

That includes paying attention to any new or changing moles, sores that won't heal, or changes in the size, color, or texture of existing moles. If you notice any concerning changes, it's important to see a dermatologist as soon as possible.

#5 Check your skin regularly

Performing regular self-examinations can help detect any changes in your skin early on.

It's recommended to check your skin every month and pay close attention to areas that are often exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs. If you notice any concerning changes, make an appointment with a dermatologist.

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Skin cancer is a preventable disease, and by taking proactive steps, individuals can protect their skin and reduce their risk of developing skin cancer. The aforementioned ways can help prevent skin cancer. By implementing these healthy habits, individuals can enjoy the outdoors while keeping their skin healthy and safe.