Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting about one in five Americans by age 70. And here’s what may surprise you, more than five million cases are diagnosed every year. Health experts say most cases are preventable but only if you’re protecting your skin the right way.
Sunshine, selfies, and summer tan lines. just one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence can more than double your risk of melanoma later in life.
“Sunscreen is very important to apply to our skin because it’s protecting us from harmful ultraviolet UV rays,” said Jesleen Ahluwalia, MD, Dermatologist
But even if you’re using sunscreen, you may not be using it correctly. The first big mistake: not using enough. most people only apply 25 to 50 percent of what’s needed.
To fully cover your body, you need about one ounce, a shot glass full and about a teaspoon for your face. Another issue: not reapplying. one survey found 65 percent of people don’t!
“Sunscreen should be reapplied every one to two hours. if you are out directly in the sun, if you’re in the water or sweating and exercising, that goes up to every 45 minutes,” explained Ahluwalia.
Also don’t skip sunscreen if it’s not sunny. Up to 80 percent of UV rays still reach your skin on cloudy days, and don’t forget sunscreen expires.
“Usually about two to three years after initially being made,” said Ahluwalia.
You may also think SPF 50 gives you double the protection of SPF 30, but that’s not how it works. SPF 30 blocks about 97 percent of the sun’s burning rays, SPF 50 blocks about 98 percent. That may sound like a small difference, but SPF 30 lets in about 50 percent more UV radiation than SPF 50.
Also don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your lips, ears, and the back of your knees and scalp. when purchasing sunscreen, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you look for products that are broad-spectrum, water-resistant, and have an SPF of 30 or higher.
Contributors to this news report include: Julie Marks, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.
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Sources:
https://www.fcdllc.com/blog/1362424-the-rise-of-skin-cancer-in-young-adults-what-you-should-know/
https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/sunburn/
