How To Prevent Skin Cancer

Taking care to prevent skin cancer is very important and you can learn how to prevent skin cancer by following some easy guidelines. Skin cancer can be deadly in some cases and prevention is not hard at all.  There are some very easy things you can do to avoid getting skin cancer. Make sure you follow up with a dermatologist if you find any growths or moles that seem to be changing.

In order to prevent skin cancer you will need

• Sunscreen for daily use.  A sunscreen with SPF 15 is okay for day to day use.
• Sunscreen with higher SPF for days when you will be out in the sun.
• Hats
• Sunglasses

In order to prevent skin cancer you should:

1. Always use a daily sunscreen. This is especially important for your face.  You can find a facial moisturizer that has SPF protection. This will prevent premature aging and help keep your skin protected from harmful rays. Skin cancer can be induced by too much exposure to the sun. Make sure your skin is protected.
2. If you are planning on being out in the sun for extended periods, use a stronger sunscreen. A sunscreen with SPF 30 is okay for most people. People with extremely fair skin should use a higher SPF to avoid burning. Sunscreen with higher SPF offers greater protection for extended periods in the sun.  If you're out in the sun for longer than an hour, you should definitely use stronger protection.  Fair-skinned people are much more sensitive to the sun and should use the highest SPF available.
3. Wear a hat to protect your face and head. Hats are especially important if you are balding or have thin hair.  The top of your head is exposed to harmful sun rays the most.  Taking care to avoid burning on top of your head is very important. Hats provide added protection and can prevent skin cancer from forming on a very sensitive area.
4. Sunglasses provide additional protection and can help shield some of the harmful UVA rays around your eyes. Your eye area is very tender and sensitive to UVA rays.  Sunglasses provide a barrier and can reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.
   
5. Always see your doctor if any moles change in color, size, or general appearance.  This can be an indication that you have skin cancer.  Dermatologists are the best types of doctor to see if you suspect skin cancer. Most general practitioners do not have the experience or training to properly diagnose skin cancer.