Our cooler mornings and earlier sunsets mean one thing in northern Nevada: Fall is just around the corner. But just because it’s almost Halloween, you’re not safe to stash the sunscreen. Consider this:
- According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, higher altitude means increased risk of sun-induced skin damage, since UV radiation exposure increases 4 to 5 percent with every 1,000 feet above sea level. In addition, snow reflects up to 80 percent of the UV light from the sun, meaning that you are often hit by the same rays twice. This only increases the risk for damage.
But are you one of the 58 percent of adult Americans who chooses not to wear sunscreen? If so, you may be even less likely to apply sunscreen during the fall and winter months.
James Harris, MD, of the Renown Institute for Cancer, explains that exposure to the sun happens when we least expect it, like during our daily commute. The ultraviolet A (UVA) rays can penetrate the windows of your car, office or home and get deep into the dermis, the thickest layer of our skin.
So what’s the solution to preventing skin damage — or even worse, skin cancer — in the colder months?
There are a million sunscreens out there, so find a sunscreen that feels good on your skin. There are hydrating formulas that are great for the drier months. Dr. Harris advises you use a broad spectrum UVA and UVB lotion with a mix of ingredients to ensure you are fully protected.
Still not sure which sunscreen to use? Look for the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation next time you’re out shopping for your sun protection products.
A good rule of thumb is to use about one ounce (a shot glass full) and re-apply every two hours, or more often if sweating. Also, make sure to:
- Follow directions and shake the bottle before using.
- Make sure all skin is covered (including neck, ears and lips).
- For people with thin or thinning hair, apply to the scalp as well.
- Carry your favorite bottle of sunscreen with you at all times.
Skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, sledders, snow shovelers and winter enthusiasts take note: When spending time out the snow, Dr. Harris recommends a sport sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, only 9 percent of adult Americans use sunscreen regularly. This statistic attributes to the “why” when we hear that one in five Americans will have some form of skin cancer during their lifetime.
Self-exams are the best way to identify melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer. Here is a step-by-step guide to your self-exam:
- Examine your skin head-to-toe once a month, looking for any suspicious lesions.
- Know what you’re looking for. As a general rule, to spot either melanomas or non-melanoma skin cancers (such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma), take note of any new moles or growths, and any existing growths that begin to grow or change significantly in any other way.
- Lesions that change, itch, bleed, or don’t heal is an alarm signal.
(Renown Health)
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