Ways to Protect Yourself from Skin Cancer
Protecting Against Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is not something that anybody should take lightly. In the United States, one person dies from melanoma every hour and there will be an estimated 87,110 new cases in 2017. Because we live in Palm Springs, an area that isn’t exactly known for its cloudiness, we need to take extra precautions in keeping our skin safe. Sunscreen goes a long way, but it isn’t foolproof. While we can’t banish the sunshine and it doesn’t seem likely that people will move out of this gorgeous area anytime soon. In order to protect yourself from this disease, you’ll want to be vigilant. As a company who received the Seal of Recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation, we made it our prerogative to inform our readers of protective measures that are available:
Cover up
The more skin that’s covered up, the more protected you are. While it’s hot in the area and long sleeved shirts aren’t feasible, choosing a T-shirt over a tank top protects a larger area of skin. Wearing a baseball cap or a sun hat can protect your the delicate skin around your eyes and face from the sun. Additionally, we recommend that you invest in a pair of sunglasses that defend against UVA and UVB rays, since the sun, even if you’re not staring at it, can still damage your eyes.
Sunscreen
Whenever you go into the sun, even if you’re only taking a quick drive across town, apply a layer of sunscreen to areas that aren’t covered by clothing. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. SPF refers to the sunscreen's ability to protect against UVA and UVB, and the higher the SPF, the longer the protection. Sunscreen is fairly inexpensive and it is available by multiple brands that use different ingredients.
Stay in the shade
If you’re out in the sun all day, you’re putting your skin at a high risk. If possible, try and seek shade whenever possible. If you’re at the beach or pool, sit underneath an umbrella. If you’re at a concert, find a tree for shelter until nighttime. Unfortunately, shade is not always an option. It’s best to apply and reapply sunscreen regularly just in case.
Be wary of bumps and marks
Skin cancer reveals itself in the form of a mole or tag. If you notice new bumps on your body that haven’t been there before, consult your physician. Catching skin cancer early enough prevents it from spreading into your lymph nodes and bloodstream. Doctors can quickly remove it without an invasive surgery or intense treatment plans.
Cover your windows
It’s normal to be under the impression that windows protect you from the sun, but they don’t! Normal windows let in just as much sun as nothing does, so taking the extra step to secure your windows can make the home just that much safer. Most of our 3M window tints protect against UVA and UVB rays so you could relax at home without worry.
Interested in having a protective film installed over your windows? Call Master Window Solutions today!
