It's possible to get skin cancer at any age. According to the American Cancer Society, it is one of the most common cancers in young adults. It's important that you protect yourself when out in the sun.  

MYTH #2: I need to use SPF 50+ to protect myself.

SPF 30 blocks 97% of the UV rays and SPF 50 blocks 98%. So choose a sun screen with at least SPF 30 unless you have had skin cancer. Then you should use SPF 50+.   

 MYTH #3: You don't need to wear sunscreen on a cloudy day.

It's commonly believed that you can't get sunburned on a cloudy day. It's not true. The sun's harmful UV rays are still present and can still lead to a sunburn. You need to wear sunscreen even when it's cloudy. 

MYTH #4: If you have a base tan, you won't burn.

There is no such thing as a healthy tan. A tan is a sign that your skin is getting damaged. A base tan does not protect you from getting burned. With continual exposure to UV rays from the sun or a tanning bed, your skin is still getting damaged. 

MYTH #5: Sunscreen contains chemicals that are harmful to humans.

The Food and Drug Administration considers sunscreens to be safe and effective. If you are concerned, look for mineral sunscreens that contain zinc or titanium oxide. Stay away from oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene and homosalate. 

Ways to Protect Yourself From The Sun

• Avoid being outside during the sun's peak times 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 
• Apply an ample amount SPF 30 sunscreen – 1 oz. (shot glass) for your body and a nickel size amount for your face – 30 minutes before you go outside or get in the water. 
• Don't forget ears, tops of feet and hands, hairline, and swimsuit line. 
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours. Set an alarm on your phone to remind you. 
• Reapply sunscreen after swimming or sweating a lot.
• Wear a hat and a sun shirt. Look for clothing with UV protection. 
• Don't forget sunglasses. UV rays are harmful to eyes too. 
• Use a self-tanning product instead.  
• Pay attention to the UV rating. Anything above a three, leads to an increased risk of getting a sunburn.  
• Remember the shadow rule: When your shadow is shorter than you are tall, the sun is more likely to cause a sunburn.  

When to See Your Primary Care Provider

• If you are worried about a spot on your skin. 
• If you have a skin lesion that hasn't healed or gone away. 
• You should start getting skin exams around the age of 20. You should start earlier if you are in the sun a lot, have fair skin, have a family history, or have a lot of moles. 
• It's a good idea to do a self-exam once a month. That way you know if your skin is changing. Click here to learn how to do a skin self-exam.

If you haven't had a skin check-up or you have something you want looked at, call to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider.  

Perham Health Community Relations