Three Important Things to Know About Sunscreen

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

This disease is the most common form of cancer in the United States. It can affect people of every age and gender, but it is also treatable and preventable. One of the simplest and most important safeguards you have against skin cancer is to wear sunscreen when you’re outside for extended periods of time.

This everyday product goes a long way in preventing damage to your skin, which is even more susceptible as we get older.

Here are a few important things to know.

Use the right SPF

It’s important to make sure you choose a strong enough sunscreen, especially if you plan on being outside for a long time. Generally, you’ll want a sunscreen in the SPF 15-50 range.

Apply a thicker coat than you may think you need

Sometimes, the sunscreen itself may look and feel thick coming out of the bottle, but this can mislead you into thinking you’re using enough when you really aren’t. You always should make sure you have significant coverage, and this usually means applying more than you think you need.

This is also a reason to avoid spray-on sunscreens. While those are quick and convenient, they will not provide the best application.

Check for UVA protection

Some sunscreens only protect you from UVB rays, so make sure the sunscreen you apply provides UVA protection. These are the dangerous rays from the sun that don’t cause tans or burns, but instead go right through to the deeper layers of your skin and can cause significant and dangerous damage.

With these things in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy the warm outdoor sunshine and stay protected at the same time, which will help prevent skin damage and even the development of skin cancer.

For more information on staying safe while enjoying healthy outdoor activities in an assisted living community, visit our website or call 815-787-6500.

Heritage Woods of DeKalb

2626 N. Annie Glidden Rd

DeKalb, IL 60115