| It is very important to protect yourself from the | | | | 5) Say NO to tanning salons |
| suns UV rays and the only way to do that is to | | | | These salons use sunlamps or tanning lights that |
| educate yourself. While it is not guaranteed, they | | | | emit UVA and UVB radiation. Often these |
| are several ways you can protect yourself | | | | radiations are up to 2-5 times higher than those |
| against skin cancer. | | | | emitted by the sun. Both UVA and UVB radiation |
| 1) Keep your exposure to the sun to the | | | | can cause premature skin aging and also skin |
| minimum | | | | cancer. |
| Try to reduce your exposure to the sun, | | | | 6) Apply Sunscreen |
| specifically in the afternoon. The UV rays from | | | | It is important to apply sunscreen that contains |
| the sun are especially strong between 11am to | | | | both UVA and UVB protection. Also ensure that it |
| 4pm so try to avoid them or keep them to a | | | | has SPF of 15 or above. It is advisable to apply |
| minimum during this period if possible. | | | | sunscreen at least 20 to 30 minutes before going |
| 2) UV rays even on cloudy days | | | | out. Also try to reapply every 2 hours. If you are |
| If you think that cloudy day means no UV, then | | | | swimming, reapply them more often. |
| you are deadly wrong. The sun's ray is so strong | | | | 7) Monthly checks on moles and freckles |
| that even on a cloudy day, up to 80 percent of | | | | Check for any changes in your moles growth, size |
| its rays can penetrate it, including through mist | | | | or color or if there is any new growth, especially |
| and fog. You still can get sunburn on cloudy days, | | | | if they are becoming darker or larger. If you |
| you just don't know it. | | | | noticed any of these, then immediately consult |
| 3) Try and shade your skin | | | | your doctor or health care provider. Remember, if |
| Wide brimmed hat or an umbrella could be helpful. | | | | detected early, skin cancer can be cured. |
| Use sunglasses that have UV protection. If you | | | | Examine your skin as often as possible, know |
| wear clothes that cover your arms and legs, | | | | what to look for, especially if you spend a lot of |
| ensure that the fabric has a tight weave. | | | | time under the sun. Know what the warning signs |
| 4) UV reflection on objects around you | | | | are and make an appointment with your doctor |
| Did you know that snow, sand, the concrete you | | | | or dermatologists as soon as you see something |
| walk on and even water are able to reflect the | | | | suspicious. Do not wait, it could mean life or death |
| sun's damaging rays up to 80 percent? Well, now | | | | for you. |
| you do. | | | | |