HEALTH TIP #37:

How to avoid skin cancer?

There are many ways to protect yourself during the hot summer months, as nobody wants to stay inside when the sun is shining. The goal, when enjoying a sunny day, is to protect you and your family from getting too much sun. Here are the Canadian Cancer Society’s recommendation for good sun protection:

Plan ahead

If you can, plan your outdoor activities before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m., when the sun is not at its strongest, or any time of the day when the UV Index is 3 or less.

Cover up

One of the best ways to protect yourself from the sun is to cover up. It is recommended to wear clothes that are loose fitting, tightly woven and lightweight as well as wear a hat to covers your head, face, ears and neck.

Wear your sunglasses

Sunglasses can help prevent damage to your eyes by blocking a large amount of UV rays. Keep your shades on and make sure your children wear them too. It is recommended to buy sunglasses with even shading, medium to dark lenses and with UVA and UVB protection.

Use sunscreen properly

Sunscreen can’t block all the sun’s rays. Use it along with shade, clothing and hats, not instead of them. Use sunscreen as a backup in your sun protection plan.

Your sunscreen should have a sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher, and if you work outdoors or are planning to be outside most of the day, use an SPF 30. Look for “broad spectrum” on the label. This means that the sunscreen offers protection against both UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays.

Apply your sunscreen generously and at least 20 minutes before going outside. Read the label and follow the instructions for reapplying. Don’t forget to cover your nose, ears and the tops of your feet. Use a waterproof sunscreen if you’re in or near water.

It is also recommended to avoid indoor tanning, such as tanning beds and sun lamps as they are as harmful to your skin and increases the risk for skin cancer.

Reference: Canadian Cancer Society

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