When it comes to taking care of our health, many people focus on exercising regularly or eating a balanced diet.

But what about protecting our skin from cancer? Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed each year. The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect yourself from skin cancer. Here is our Skin Safety 101 guide to help you reduce your risk of skin cancer.

Know Your Skin Type

The first step to protecting your skin is to be aware of your skin type. The Fitzpatrick scale is a numerical system that dermatologists use to measure the skin’s response to the sun.

The scale ranges from skin type I, which burns easily and never tans, to skin type VI, which never burns and always tans. Understanding your skin type can help you determine how much time you can safely spend in the sun before risking a burn or other skin damage.

Stay in the Shade

The sun is the strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. During this time, it’s best to stay in the shade to protect your skin.

If you’re going to be out in the sun for an extended period, bring an umbrella or a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck. You should also wear protective clothing, like long-sleeved shirts and pants, to cover your skin as much as possible.

Wear Sunscreen Every Day

Sunscreen is a crucial tool in the fight against skin cancer. Even on cloudy days, up to 80 percent of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin.

When choosing a sunscreen, you should look for one that offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. You should also choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Remember to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.

Protect Your Eyes

Your eyes are also at risk for skin damage from the sun. When choosing sunglasses, look for a pair that blocks at least 99 percent of UVA and UVB rays. You should also wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck from the sun.

Check Your Skin Regularly

Early detection is key when it comes to skin cancer. You should check your skin regularly for any changes, like new moles or freckles, or any spots that have changed in size, color, or texture.

If you notice any changes, make an appointment with a dermatologist right away. The American Cancer Society recommends getting a professional skin exam every year if you’re at average risk for skin cancer, or more often if you have a higher risk.

Protect Your Children’s Skin

Children are especially vulnerable to sun damage because their skin is thinner and more delicate than adults’ skin.

It’s important to protect your children’s skin by applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher whenever they’re outside. You should also dress them in protective clothing, like hats and long-sleeved shirts, and encourage them to play in the shade.

Avoid Tanning Beds

Tanning beds are not a safe way to get a tan. They emit harmful UV rays that can cause skin damage and increase your risk of skin cancer. If you want a tan, consider using a self-tanning product instead.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is not only harmful to your lungs; it’s also harmful to your skin. Smoking can cause wrinkles, age spots, and a dull complexion. It can also increase your risk of skin cancer.

If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health and your skin.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is important for keeping your skin healthy. When you’re dehydrated, your skin can become dry, flaky, and more prone to wrinkles.

Make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your skin from cancer is an important part of taking care of your health. By following these Skin Safety 101 tips, you can reduce your risk of skin cancer and keep your skin healthy and beautiful.

Remember to always wear sunscreen, stay in the shade, and check your skin regularly for any changes. Your skin will thank you!.