In New England, we know summer won’t last long. So it’s no wonder we run to the beach at the first sign of nice weather. After such a long winter we should celebrate the natural beauty of our hiking trails and coastline. So, get out there! Enjoy our favorite season but do it responsibly and remember these facts.
FACT. Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide and the most preventable.
FACT. Skin cancer affects people of all colors, even those with darker skin tones.
FACT. 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70.
FACT. Having five or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma.
FACT. When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%.
Every time you tan, your skin is damaged. As this damage increases, you increase your risk for all types of skin cancer, premature aging, and skin damage. So, what can we do?
STAY SHADY. Always find the shade between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM. This time of day is when the sun’s UV rays are strongest.
DON’T GET BURNED. Sunburns increase your chances of skin cancer, and they can permanently damage your skin. At Embody, we offer medical-grade peels that stimulate collagen and new cell growth, repairing sun damage and leaving you with younger looking skin.
AVOID TANNING. A tan does not make you look healthy. In fact, getting a tan from an artificial tanning source is quite the opposite of healthy. Never use UV tanning beds or booths. Instead, try a spray tan that will leave you with all the glow and none of the damage.
COVER UP. When you can’t be in the shade, make sure you cover up. Wearing sunglasses, a broad-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirts, and pants are excellent choices to stay protected from the sun’s UV rays.
LATHER UP. Apply 1 ounce of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before you go outside. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or exercising. Our team of experts at Embody Medspa can help you find a product that is perfect for you.
CHECK YOURSELF. Examine your skin head to toe every month. Memorize your moles, blemishes, and freckles so that you will notice if anything changes. In the words of Ice Cube, “Check yourself before you wreck yourself.”
THE DOCTOR KNOWS BEST. At least once a year, you should see a Dermatologist for a professional skin exam. A dermatologist may catch sun damage that you have missed, and they will be able to recognize the earliest signs of skin cancer.
So, go ahead, order a cute suit, and get your beach body ready but do not forget our tips and tricks for staying safe in the sun.
