Top 5 Skin Cancer Prevention Tips and Techniques
The sun brings light and life to the planet. But just like anything, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing.
In this case, too much sun exposure can lead to a higher risk of developing skin cancer. Skin cancer is extremely treatable, especially when caught in the early stages. However, it is still the most common type of cancer in the world and something you should take steps to avoid.
Check out these great skin cancer prevention tips to help avoid the formation of this cancer altogether.
1. Seek the Shade
Exposure to UV radiation is a big culprit in the formation of skin cancer. The sun is, of course, a big source of this radiation. Thus, you should seek the shade as much as possible.
Many people lay out in the sun, or worse in tanning beds, seeking that coveted bronze glow. While this doesn’t guarantee that you’ll develop skin cancer, it certainly raises your chances.
Instead, seek the shade whenever possible. This is particularly important during the hottest part of the day when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Generally, this is between 10 am and 2 pm.
Want a quick tip for how to tell you’re in the danger zone? If your shadow is shorter than you are it’s time to get out of the sun.
2. Cover Up
Sometimes you will have to be outdoors and in the sun during these hours. In those cases, be sure to cover up.
Use lightweight but long-sleeved clothing and pants. Many companies sell clothing with built-in UV protection. This is an excellent choice for optimal protection.
Wide-brimmed hats to protect your face and sunglasses to protect your eyes round out the perfect sun protection ensemble.
3. Skin Checks
Regardless of how careful you are, you can still get skin cancer. The earlier you receive a diagnosis, the better chance you’ll have of a successful and quick recovery.
Thus, you should perform regular skin checks. You can do an at-home version by thoroughly checking over your entire body after a shower or bath.
You should also visit a skin cancer clinic for a formal check on occasion. How often you should go will depend on your specific risk factors. Talk to your doctor for a good recommendation.
4. Eat Healthily
Though research is still in its preliminary stages, it does appear that what you eat can affect your risk of skin cancer. Certain phytochemicals found in some fruits and vegetables seem to be an effective “sunscreen”.
This is yet another in the long list of reasons that you should eat healthily.
Diet may help to account for why some people are affected more easily by the sun than others. In addition to others factors, of course.
5. Don’t Smoke
As if you needed another good reason to not smoke. You can tack a reduced risk of skin cancer on along with a reduced risk of lung or bladder cancer and other diseases.
The effect is incredibly powerful. In fact, if you stop smoking, your risk of developing skin cancer eventually drops to that of a person who has never smoked at all.
Follow These Skin Cancer Prevention Tips for a Healthier You
Skin cancer doesn’t need to be a part of your life story. These cancer prevention tips are helpful for making sure that it never happens.
To learn more about being the healthiest version of yourself, feel free to check out the health and wellness section of our blog.