Photo credit: (Getty Images)
It’s so easy to throw caution to the wind and hit the beach or pool without thinking about much except bringing your swimsuit, and maybe a towel. But taking care of your skin is important, and skin cancer is a real threat.
According to Dr. Marina Peredo, protecting your skin from cancer risks starting at a young age is one of the best preventive measures.
“If people get bad blisters or sunburns before the age of 18, they are more likely to get skin cancer,” said Peredo, who has an office on Long Island and is a clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan.
Peredo shared her skin safety tips — and preventive measures — with amNewYork.
1. “You might have just been using an SPF 15 in your makeup or daily moisturizer for incidental sun exposure throughout the winter, but in the summer use a true sunscreen that contains an SPF of at least 30. Try one formulated with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, Mexoryl, Anthelios or Helioplex. Make sure that you reapply every hour during sun exposure. While you can never apply too much sunscreen, it’s recommended to use a nickel-sized dollop to the face and a shot glass worth to the body.”
2. “Choosing the right sunscreen is half the battle. Look for ones that have UVA/UVB protection and that clearly state it’s broad spectrum for the best overall protection. Water resistant sunscreens are great as well if you will be by a pool or ocean. Read ingredient labels — some may contain chemicals and allergens that can do more harm to the skin than good.”
3. “While you’re conscious about protecting your skin from sun exposure, many of us forget ... the scalp. Instead of slathering lotion into your scalp, creating more of a mess than protection, use a powder SPF that dispenses through a brush. Dust the sunscreen product along your scalp, concentrating on any exposed parts of your hairline, including right at the forehead, where we tend to miss applying product.”
4. “Wear protective clothing. Loose fitting clothes that cover your skin is great protection from the sun. You can also try the new SPF clothing trend that has UV protection built into the material.”
5. “Skin cancer isn’t formed from just severe burns — continual tanning can play a role as well. Although you might be loving your new sun-kissed glow, a bronzed body means you got more than the normal amount of sun exposure and now put your skin at risk. Get a full body check annually to monitor any suspicious spots.”
