With summer just around the corner, it’s important to remember the importance of protecting your skin at all times. One of the most vital ways to do this is by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF.

In this article, we’ll examine the role that sunscreen plays in preventing melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer.

What is Melanoma?

Before we dive into the importance of sunscreen, let’s first define melanoma. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that arises from cells in the skin that produce pigment.

It often appears as a mole that is asymmetrical, has irregular borders, is multicolored, and has a diameter larger than a pencil eraser. Although melanoma is less common than other types of skin cancer, it is much more dangerous and can spread quickly if not caught early.

How Does Sunscreen Help?

Now that we have a better understanding of what melanoma is, let’s talk about how sunscreen can help prevent it. Sunscreen works by absorbing or reflecting the sun’s harmful UV rays before they reach the skin.

This is important because UV rays can cause DNA damage in skin cells, which can lead to the development of skin cancer, including melanoma.

What is SPF?

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a rating system that tells you how much protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays, the type of UV ray that primarily causes sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer.

The higher the SPF, the more protection you get. For example, a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 will provide 97% protection against UVB rays, while a sunscreen with an SPF of 50 will provide 98% protection.

What SPF Should You Use?

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that everyone use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This is because an SPF of 30 can block up to 97% of UVB rays, which is generally considered sufficient protection.

However, it’s important to remember that no sunscreen can provide 100% protection against the sun’s harmful rays, so it’s still important to take other precautions, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours.

When Should You Apply Sunscreen?

It’s important to apply sunscreen every time you go outside, even on cloudy days. UV rays can penetrate clouds, so it’s still possible to get sunburned even if it’s not sunny.

For best results, apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours (more often if you are swimming or sweating).

Other Sunscreen Tips

Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when using sunscreen:.

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin (about a shot glass full for one application).
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your scalp, ears, neck, and any other areas of skin that may be exposed to the sun.
Be sure to check the expiration date on your sunscreen. Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time, so if it’s expired, it’s no longer providing the protection you need.
Keep in mind that sunscreen is just one part of a comprehensive sun protection plan. Seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours are also important.

Conclusion

In conclusion, wearing sunscreen with a high SPF is one of the most important things you can do to protect your skin from melanoma and other types of skin cancer.

With summer fast approaching, it’s important to make sure you’re taking all the necessary steps to keep your skin safe. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, apply it every time you go outside, and don’t forget to reapply regularly.