“We cannot direct the wind but we can adjust the sails.”
-Anonymous
Most of us love to spend time outside whether that means going on a hike, hanging out with friends at a barbeque, or relaxing by the pool. But what do all these things have in common? The sun. And the more time we spend in the sun, the risk of us getting skin cancer increases. Since skin cancer is on the rise we need to talk about it. Not to sound scary, but we can reduce the risk by educating ourselves on the topic, so here goes.
Skin itself
The skin is the single largest organ in the body. It is largely made up of water, but is also a complex web of proteins and amino acids. Now that we know that let’s look at some interesting sun-related realities.
Facts and figures
Here are some facts you should be aware of when thinking about skin cancer:
- According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, an estimated 90% of aging is caused by the sun
- People who use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher daily show 24% less skin aging than those who do not use sunscreen daily
- Sun damage is considered a cumulative effect and by age 18 the average person in the US has been exposed to about 23% of their lifetime exposure.
- The number of reported skin cancer instances has risen 300% since 1994
- You are more likely to develop skin cancer than dropping your phone in the toilet
- Contrary to popular belief darker skin tones are still susceptible to skin cancer
What causes skin cancer?
When exposed to UV rays, some molecules can become free radicals that eventually lead to skin cancer. According to Cancer Research UK :
“Too much UV radiation from the sun or sunbeds can damage the genetic material (the DNA) in your skin cells. If enough DNA damage builds up over time, it can cause cells to start growing out of control, which can lead to skin cancer.”
What can we do about it?
Luckily skin cancer is preventable. Since its inception back in 1979, the Skin Cancer Foundation has created a list of how to protect yourself against skin cancer. Here are their top recommendations:
- Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM
- Avoid getting sunburned
- Avoid tanning and UV tanning beds
- Cover upwith clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses
- Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreenwith an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
- Apply 1 ounce(2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating
- Keep newborns out of the sun:Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months
- Examine your skinhead-to-toe every month
- See your physician every yearfor a professional skin exam.
This is an issue that effects everyone from all walks of life. Some of the facts on here are scary, but it’s good to know there is something you can do about it. Make sure to keep these recommendations in mind to prevent skin cancer from happening to you or someone you love.
To protecting yourself from skin damage,
Team Reflect
Did you enjoy the post? We would appreciate you sharing this with friends on Pinterest, Facebook or on email. Thank you for reading! If we can help you or someone you know with a personalized skin care program, please let us know!
Share - Pin - Tweet - Email