Protecting your skin in the summer fun!
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, as skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States with 9,500 people diagnosed daily. So, how can you protect your skin from the sun?
Avoid tanning beds, which have harmful ultraviolet A rays. Many people prefer self-tanning agents, which is a much better solution and results in a temporary staining of the skin with dihydroxyacetone (DHA). Tanners come in wipes, sprays, lotions, and drops.
Remember that sunscreen still needs to be used in conjunction with self-tanners. Seeking shade, using a sunbrella or sitting under a tree is often an easy technique.
Many chairs are now equipped with their own coverage. Sun-protective clothing also helps, and many companies now make rash guards and shirts/pants with SPF built into the fabric such that no sunscreen is necessary in those area!
Remember that hats and sunglasses are a must, as your eyes are also susceptible to sun damage. People who have exposed scalps need to wear a hat, preferably a wide brimmed one!
Lastly, in exposed areas of the skin, SPF creams or lotions should be applied. Active ingredients of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are preferred and less likely to cause stinging/burning and allergic reactions.
Lotions on the body and sticks on the face and scalp are easy to use, especially in kids. The use of a facial moisturizer with sunblock in it every morning as a preventive measure is essential.
Sprays are not preferable as they usually contain chemical sunscreens and come in aerosols that can be inhaled. The SPF number should be at least a 30 or higher.
Remember that the best sunscreen is the one you actually use. Don’t forget your ears, hands, and feet while you are jumping the waves on the beach!
If you have a specific concern that you would like to have checked, please contact the office to schedule an appointment at 215-589-7373. www.schwarzderm.com.
PHOTO CAP: Mineral Sunscreen Products.