Skin Cancer and Sun Protection

Filed in archive Lifestyles , Skin Cancer on June 1, 2010

© m00by

Summer is here at last and we should not forget the importance of sun protection.

Here are a few misconceptions about sun protection:

1. A T-shirt can replace sunscreen during a day in the sun. A typical T-shirt is equivalent to Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 10, and a polo shirt is only slightly better. But then, who want to wear a polo shirt when frolicking on the beach this summer?

2. SPF determines the level of coverage that sunscreen provides. Make sure the sunscreen protects from both UVA and UVB rays and contains a physical block such as titanium oxide or zinc oxide.

3. Sun protection is not necessary with overcast skies or time spent in the shade. But ultraviolet light can penetrate cloud coverage and cause skin damage.

According to Dr. Peter Lee, director of the Dermatologic Surgery and Laser Center and professor of dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School: The best way to avoid skin cancer is to wear sun block with a broad spectrum of protection. Be sure to re-apply several times throughout the day, and when possible, take breaks in the shade if out in the sun for an extended period of time. It is important to get suspicious moles and lesions checked out immediately to ensure early and successful treatment.

So have fun under the sun this summer but don't forget to put on your sunscreen lotion before going out!