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Slip, Slop, & Slap into Summer.

Enjoy A Sunburn Free Summer.

By Melody Schubert

Slip on a shirt. Slop on some sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher, and Slap on hat before stepping out into the unforgiving sun this summer.

This advice comes from the American Cancer Society. The reason for concern is the sun's ultraviolet rays that are more intense between 10am - 4pm. This is the time when many people are sunburned while seeking relief from the sizzling heat in swimming pools or participating in water sports. Others are burned while mowing the lawn or working in the garden. Protecting your skin from these harsh UV rays can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer later in life.

Each year America’s youth head to the local swimming pool, beach, or lake for fun in the sun. A few of those will use a sunscreen. Others will return home with sunburn. To reduce the risk of painful sunburns the American Cancer Society recommends frequent application of sunscreen. When using a sunscreen it is best to apply it 15 to 30 minutes before going outside so it has time to soak into the skin. Reapply the sunscreen every two hours, and after swimming or activities that make you perspire, which can wash away the lotion. To protect your face, neck, and ears, which are especially vulnerable to the sun, wear a hat. Do not be fooled by cloudy days. Many people are burned on cloudy or overcast days because the sun reflects off of the sand, water, and snow in the winter. On sunny days seek relief in the shade. Choose outdoor cafes with umbrellas or covered porches while eating, instead of baking in the sun.

Protection while outdoors will help prevent skin cancer. One other area often overlooked is the use of tanning beds. The UV radiation during a 20 minute session is the same as being out in the sun for several hours. The risk are the same whether you tan indoors or at the lake or pool.

Many moisturizers on the market today contain sunscreens that can be used daily to protect you skin. There are also products especially made to protect the skin of for infants and toddlers that have a higher sun protection factor. Women who take birth control or are pregnant are especially vulnerable to sunburn. Use a sunscreen that contains a SPF over 30 to protect your sensitive skin. Review the labels to find out how long the sunscreen will protect you before you need to reapply it. If you plan to stay out in the sun all day have an ample supply of sunscreen on hand to protect yourself and your family. If you want a tan consider alternative options. Self-tanning creams are available that can be applied at night. You will still need to use a sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or above since these products do not provide protection from the sun.

The difference between sunscreen products varies. Sunscreens screen out the sun's rays by penetrating the skin. A sunblock forms a physical barrier between your skin and the sun. If you are prone to acne you may consider using a product that is alcohol-based to prevent further outbreaks. There are medications that will increase the risk of sunburn. Should you have sensitive skin seek the advice of your family doctor or pharmacist, who can advise what products best for your skin type. They can also advise you which medications could increase the risk of sunburn.     

Peeling after sunburn is your body’s way of replacing the skin cells that have died. Moisturizers can return moisture levels to your skin, although they will not prevent peeling. Another effect of exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays is premature aging, discoloration of your skin, and wrinkles. Protecting your skin with a sunscreen will help prevent these harmful effects.

Remember Slip, Slop, Slap.

Slip on a tee shirt.

Slop on a sunscreen with a SPF that suits your skin type, especially when outdoors between 10am - 4pm. Reapply it often. Use it on cloudy days when the sun reflects off of sand and water. Protect the sensitive skin of children with a sun block. Many products have started using brighter colors. Let your children pick one they like, and choose a shady area where they can play while outdoors.

Slap on a hat to protect your face, neck, and ears. Wear sunglasses with UV filter to protect your eyes, especially while reading. Paper can also reflect the sun's harmful rays.

When it comes to our health we are normally the first to know when something does not feel right. A sunburn is our bodies defense against exposure to UV radiation. The tan so many Americans strive for is actually a sign of skin damage. Paying close attention to the condition of your skin can help you spot a skin problem early. Examine moles and freckles often, and report any changes to your family doctor, who can refer you to a dermatologist. Over 90 percent of skin cancer is treatable when detected early.

Knowing what to do to protect your skin is the first step toward preventing it.

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