Why you should make sunscreen a part of your daily routine

Sunscreen

Adequate sun protection dramatically reduces the risk of melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, and may reduce the risk of other skin cancers. The American Cancer Society recommends applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on a daily basis to reduce your risk. 

Melanin–the substance that gives color to eyes, hair and skin–acts as a natural sun protectant, meaning the fairer you are, the higher your overall risk. Still, while skin tone and hair color do have an impact on cancer risk, reducing sun exposure is important for everyone. 

Wearing sunscreen daily might seem like a simple directive, but it’s important to make sure you’re doing it correctly: 

• Apply sunscreen generously - If you’re covering most of your body, you should use enough sunscreen to fill a shot glass. 
• Double check extremities - The ears, nose, hands, feet, neck, and lips are often overlooked. An estimated 40%-60% of melanomas form on the face, making it an especially important spot to cover. 
• Reapply often - The American Academy of Dermatology recommends reapplying sunscreen every two hours. And remember, there’s no such thing as waterproof sunscreen, so it’s important to reapply after you’ve been in the water, or on particularly sweaty days. 
• Protect your lips - Though lip melanoma is relatively rare, the location correlates with lower survival rates and can be more disfiguring. It’s important to use a lip balm with SPF in addition to your daily sunscreen routine.
• Purchase broad spectrum sunscreen - Make sure your sunscreen is labeled “broad spectrum,” or as protecting against both UVA and UVB rays. While sunburn is mostly associated with UVB rays, UVA rays are just as dangerous (and because you’re less likely to burn, you may not realize how much exposure you’re getting). Broad spectrum sunscreens protect your skin against both. An added bonus of broader protection is younger-looking skin: UVA rays are the primary cause of skin aging (including wrinkles). 

You can also reduce your risk by limiting your overall sun exposure. Staying out of direct sunlight, wearing protective clothing (such as long sleeves or a wide-brimmed hat), or carrying a sun umbrella are all effective ways to reduce risk.  

And though it may seem obvious, remember: tanning beds are never a good idea.