Start practicing good skincare now to reduce your risk of skin cancer.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US and, according to Blue Cross and Blue Shield, the East Coast has the highest rates of skin cancer and Buffalo’s skin cancer prevalence rate is higher than the national average. So, what can Buffalonians do this summer, and all year long, to protect against skin cancer? Our Buffalo, NY, dermatologist Dr. Anthony Dee can help.
Always wear sunscreen
It doesn’t matter if it’s sunny, raining or snowing out, you need to wear sunscreen. Looks can be deceiving but UV rays can still bounce off puddles, mounds of snow and through clouds to damage your skin. This is why every day you should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (which protects against both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of at least 30.
Know how to apply sunscreen properly
Most people don’t know how much sunscreen to apply or how often to reapply. Practicing good sunscreen habits will ensure that you are doing your best to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s rays. Make sure that you apply about one ounce of sunscreen to your body and your face about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Need a sunscreen application tutorial? This video tutorial from the American Academy of Dermatology is helpful.
Avoid Tanning Beds at all Costs
No amount of tanning is healthy, whether you only hop in the tanning bed for a couple of minutes at a time or you only spend 15 minutes outside without sunscreen. Any amount of UV light exposure can be harmful to your skin. Be smart!
Always Stay Under the Shade
Seek shade as much as possible throughout the day, especially during the hours of 10 am-4 pm when the sun’s rays are their most potent. We understand that you may be longing to sit outside to eat lunch or you just can’t wait to escape for a weekend beach getaway, but you can still enjoy the warm, sunny days under an awning or beach umbrella (and your skin will thank you).
When was the last time you saw your Buffalo, NY, dermatologist for a skin cancer screening? If it’s been more than a year, or if you’ve never been screened before, it’s a good time to do it. Call Dermatologic Center for Excellence today at (716) 636-3376 to schedule an appointment.