What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. It occurs when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells (most often caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunshine or tanning beds) triggers mutations, or genetic defects, that lead the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors. To lower your skin cancer risk, protect your skin from the sun and avoid indoor tanning.

Summer is full of fun in the sun. Enjoying time outdoors with your loved ones. However exposing yourself to the UV rays can put you at risk for skin cancer. You should put sunscreen on yourself, and encourage anyone with you to protect their selves when outdoors. But do you know you should protect your skin with more than just sunscreen anytime you’re outside?

Sun protection is important all year round, not just summer. When you’re taking walks, sitting on the porch, doing outdoor activities, make sure you are being safe everyday by creating good habits so you can avoid getting a sunburn and lower your chance of getting skin cancer.

What’s In Your Bag?

Easy tips to help make sure you and your loved ones stay safe in the sun. Make sure you keep sunscreen on you to protect your skin from the sun.

 Keep these things with you to prepare for the sun-

  • Light, long-sleeved shirt or cover-up.
  • A wide brim hat.
  • Shades that block UVA and UVB rays.
  • Sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and both UVA and UVB (broad spectrum) protection.

Additional Sun Safety Tips

  • Stay in the shade, when the sun peeks in the late morning through the late afternoon.
  • In the sun all day? Wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants to protect your skin.
  • Remember to reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.

Want to learn more? Visit the CDC website.