HealthyPlusno2Aug30pages (1) - Flipbook - Page 9
Protect your peepers
UV rays can also do permanent damage
to your eyes. When choosing sunglasses,
look for ones that block 100% of both
UVA and UVB rays and screen out
75-90% of visible light.
Protect and preserve
Because no single method of sun defense can
provide complete protection, it’s a good idea to
adopt and pair different approaches. Here are a few
to consider:
COVER UP
Clothing can provide a valuable—but not
complete—barrier against UV rays. “The more skin
you cover, the better your protection,” says Dr.
Ellis. “Plus, a number of new breathable fabrics
provide advanced protection. Look for widebrimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and pants with
UPF on the label.” Apply sunscreen to any skin
that remains exposed, including your neck, hands,
and the tops of your feet.
MENTAL
If you see something, say something
HEALTH
Unlike other cancers that develop in the body, skin
cancer happens on the surface and can be caught
early when it’s most treatable.
Dr. Ellis advises everyone to, “Give yourself a
good head-to-toe skin examination once a month
and get familiar with any moles, freckles, or other
markings on your body. If you notice any changes
to the size, shape, or color of a marking, or a new
one develops, make an appointment with your
doctor. But don’t panic. Not all skin changes are
caused by skin cancer but it’s best to get it checked
out sooner than later.” +
BE SUNSCREEN SAVVY
• Your skin can take up to a half-hour to absorb
sunscreen. So, plan ahead and apply sunscreen
30 minutes before going outside.
• Look for sunscreens with “broad spectrum”
protection. While all sunscreens protect against
UVB rays—the main cause of sunburn and skin
cancers— broad spectrum products provide
protection from UVA rays which also contribute
to skin cancer.
• Always use a sunscreen with a sun protection
factor (SPF) 30 or higher.
• Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours
and even more often if you are swimming
or sweating. No sunscreens are water- or
sweatproof. Water-resistant products should be
reapplied per label instructions.
Fast Facts about Skin Cancer
20%
5+
of Americans will
develop skin cancer
sunburns double your risk
for melanoma
The five-year survival rate for patients
whose melanoma
is detected early is
99%
Source: The Skin Cancer Foundation
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