7 Sun Safety Tips: May is Skin Cancer Awareness & Prevention Month

May is national skin cancer awareness and prevention month and with summer in full swing, here are some sun safety tips to help you safely enjoy your vacation.

In the United States, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. It is caused by excessive exposure to the sun's Ultraviolet (UV) radiation and categorized into two types: non-melanoma and melanoma. Of the two, melanoma is considered to be the most aggressive type.

For awareness and prevention, HealthFinder suggests spreading the word adopting healthy sun protection habits. You can raise awareness by sharing information about May as Melanoma/Skin Cancer Awareness month through social media and in various ways of your choosing.

For prevention, here are 7 sun safety tips to protect your skin from skin cancer:

1.) Wear Sunscreen Everyday

At any weather or season, it is important to wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30, with a label that says "broad-spectrum" to protect yourself against both UVA and UVB rays. According to WebMD, sunscreens protect the skin against UV radiation, prevent sunburn, and premature aging.

However, this does not mean that wearing sunscreen will make you immune from the sun. Make sure to apply a generous amount of sun block to the skin 30 minutes before leaving the house. Reapply every 2 hours or as needed especially when you are sweating or swimming.

2.) Wear Sunglasses

A pair of sunglasses with total UV protection is a must if you plan to go out in the daylight. In an article from MedicineNet.com, sunglasses are more than just fashion accessories, they help block out the sun's harmful rays. Shades dim out bright lights so it lessens squinting which leads to improved vision,

3.) Wear Appropriate Clothes That Offer Sun Protection

Clothes such as a long-sleeved shirts, long loose pants, and wide-brimmed hats can shield the skin from direct sunlight.

4.) Avoid Outdoor Mid-day Activities

The hours from 10am to 4pm are when the sun's rays are strongest, according to the CDC. If you must be out during high noon, take care to seek shade for as long as you possibly can.

5.) Use Cosmetic Make Up and Contact Lenses That Offer UV Protection

Photoaging is caused by sun exposure and it can hasten the development of wrinkles and generally makes the skin look dull and aged. Using cosmetics and contact lenses that offer UV protection can make a difference according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.

6.) Don't Use Tanning Beds

According to the skin cancer facts shared by SkinCancer.org, Ultraviolet radiation is a carcinogen. There have been more than 400,000 skin cancer cases in the US annually.

7.) Practice Sun Safety Habits with Kids

Teach and practice safety habits with kids to avoid sunburn and that so they too can be safe under the sun.