Sun Care Tips and Facts

Protect Yourself and Your Skin

By SkinCareGuide.ca

It's summer! That means vacation, beaches, tennis and of course sun shine. Although we get Vitamin D from the sun, it is thought that you really don't need more than minutes of sunshine a week in order to get the required amount. Unfortunately there really is no such thing as a safe tan. So protect yourself and your family members with the following tips on sun care. To get more skin care tips and facts, click on Skin Care Tips.

Childhood Sun Safety is Essential.

Studies have shown that between 50% and 80% of lifetime sun exposure occurs before age 18. Make sure your teenager (and your whole family) is using a broad spectrum sun screen (with both UVA and UVB protection) with a spf of at least 15 (30 or more is better, especially if they are fair skinned) and that they are using the correct amount. One of the main causes of sun screen failure is that people just don't use enough, so slaver it on!

Caution: Skin Cancer is Rising in Canadians.

There will be 30% more Canadians with skin cancer than 10 years ago, according to the Canadian Dermatology Association. The W.H.O. says it's the most common type of cancer amongst Canadians. Don't be a part of the statistics. Cover up and protect yourself. Read more on Skin Cancer treatment and care patient guide

A Changing Birthmark?

Just as you check your moles for any changes, you should also check your birthmarks and your family's birthmarks regularly. If you notice anything new, make an appointment to see your doctor.

Think you may have AK?

The most common cause of actinic keratosis (pre-cancerous lesions that commonly emerge in fair-skinned people in their 50s) is sun exposure. Those who have worked outdoors or spent a significant amount of time in outdoor recreational pursuits - such as sailing, golfing or skiing - are at the greatest risk. Use sunscreen!

Teach Your Children About Sun Protection.

Educate your children about sun protection. Protecting children from the sun - by using sunscreen and ensuring that they wear a hat and protective clothing when outdoors - is an important way to prevent later sun-related problems, including skin cancer. Developing good sun protection habits early will help them through-out their lives.

The Sun is Different in Different Countries.

Some places on the earth experience stronger ultraviolet radiation. If you're traveling near the equator or at high altitudes, your risk of sunburn increases significantly. Be prepared by taking along sunscreen and sun-protective clothing.

Keep the Sunscreen Out of Your Eyes!

Sunscreen can irritate your eyes! To reduce the risk of inadvertently transferring sunscreen to your eyes, always remember to wash your hands well after applying sunscreen. Runners can try using lip sunscreen on their forehead as it is less likely to drip into their eyes.

Skin Cancer Fact:

By the age of 65, almost half of all North Americans have experienced some form of skin cancer. Don't be a part of the statistics. Cover up and protect yourself.