With sunbeds and daily tanning less in trend than they used to be, one of the primary causes of skin cancer is a lack of protection from the sun when vacationing in tropical or hot locations, as well as not providing coverage for your skin day-to-day. Though our first instinct off a plane is to smother any children or babies with suncream and place hats on their heads, for parents and adults, protecting yourself from the sun is hardly ever the first thing on your mind. Here are just some things you can do when on vacation to help prevent skin cancer:
Use High Factor Sunscreen
Though everything from foundation to lip balm claims to have a degree of SPF from 15-25 in its mixture, in reality, a higher factor sunscreen is always the preferable option. Choosing high factor sunscreen keeps you protected from the heat of the sun far more efficiently, though it’s important to remember to reapply after going in the water or every few hours.
Wear a Wetsuit
A tropical beach doesn’t seem like the place for a wetsuit, but if you’re planning to be in the pool or ocean for a long time, you’ll soon find yourself unprotected from the sun’s rays in swim shorts or a bikini. In some cases, the water can even amplify the effects of the sun, resulting in worse sunburn and even heatstroke. It’s essential to protect yourself any time you’re out in the sun or water for a long time.
Find the Shade
Even if the sun doesn’t feel too warm, if you’re out all day in bright sunlight, you’re exposing yourself to the sun’s harmful rays for hours on end. Consider finding shade wherever you can – whether it’s an awning, a tree or a parasol, and wear clothing that provides its own shade and cover, such as wide-brimmed hats. Keeping your face and top of your head covered is vital, as it’s one of the most sensitive parts of your body – as well as being closest to the sun.
If you have any concerns regarding your skin and skin cancer, and you want to visit an expert doctor in the Atlanta area, look no further. At Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, we offer expert advice and skin care, as well as skin cancer screenings and treatment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office in Alpharetta.