Sarah spends most of her summers near the beach. She lives in a temperate climate and is very athletic. He enjoys swimming, biking and playing sports outside. Sarah knows the dangers of the sun and therefore chooses a tanning salon to achieve her 'golden glow' while making sure to apply sunscreen every day before going out.
Joseph lives in a cool, northern climate. Summers can be very humid, but most of the year is milder or even milder during the harshest winter months. The beach has never been more attractive to him, and he spends most of his time in indoor activities or at his job. Joseph doesn't worry about sunscreen and there was only one sunburn he remembers and that was when he was a kid.
Which of these examples do you associate yourself with the most? Did you know that both Sarah and Joseph are at risk for skin cancer? We've all heard the warnings about the dangers of sun exposure. We all know the importance of wearing sunscreen and hats. But are you safe from skin cancer? Consider these myths and facts:
- Myth: Tanning beds are safer than the sun.
20 minutes of exposure to a tanning bed is equivalent to about four hours in the sun. Although UVA is used instead of UVB rays in the sun's beds, The Skin Cancer Answer states that "UVA penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB, can cause skin cancer, and the immune system." Can suppress. "
- Myth: Wearing sunscreen on the beach is protection.
Eighty-five percent of UV rays can pass through even on cloudy days. That means you run the risk of being in the car, walking the dog or letting your kids out to play at any time of the year - even when you're not at the beach. Of course, you are usually less dressed on the beach ,and therefore it is recommended to wear sunscreen. Sunscreen also removes sweat and water and should be applied every two hours or after getting wet.
- Myth: Now taking care of your skin will protect you.
Unfortunately, it can take 20 or more years for skin cancer to develop. The Skin Cancer Foundation says most people receive about 80% of their lifetime sunlight before the age of 18. Just one blister in the sun in childhood doubles the risk of melanoma later in life. Taking better care now will reduce the risk, but will not eliminate the damage already done.
Myth: Having a tan means you're safer.
People with dark skin are less likely to get cancer, but pale skin actually damages the skin. Repeated tanning damages the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer.
So how will you protect your family this year? There are some tips to limit sun exposure - especially for infants. Examine your skin for early signs of damage. Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher and apply it at least 30 minutes before and every two hours thereafter. Teach your kids good safety habits and make sure you ,and they are covered when you are out and about.
Enjoy and be safe.
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