Summer is in full swing, and in Wisconsin, that often means spending as much time as possible outdoors.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. With 20% of Americans developing the disease by age 70, it’s a serious concern.
“We want to make sure that everyone applies sunscreen year-round, not just during the warmer summer months,” said Dr. Glenn Vogelsang with ThedaCare. “Ultraviolet radiation, which causes the damage that can lead to skin cancer, is present even in the winter months and on cloudy days.”
Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen — one that protects against both UVA and UVB light — with a sun-protection factor of at least 30 is recommended, but 50 or greater would be optimal, Vogelsang said. SPF is a measure of how much ultraviolet radiation is required to produce sunburn on protected skin.
People can choose from two types of sunscreen: chemical and mineral. Both offer similar levels of protection, and choosing one comes down to individual preference.
Chemical sunscreens need about 30 minutes to absorb into the skin to be effective, so plan ahead and apply before going outside. Mineral sunscreens provide a physical barrier to UV rays and are especially good for infants and younger children.
People should reapply sunscreen at least every two hours. Apply more frequently if you’re participating in water sports, sweating a lot, or getting a lot of direct sun.
“People sometimes quickly apply sunscreen to their face, arms, and legs and think they’re done,” Vogelsang said. “It’s important to apply carefully and use an adequate amount of sunscreen to cover exposed areas.”
A common guideline for adults is to use about one ounce of sunscreen to cover their skin. That equates to a shot glass.
“The sun-exposed areas of the body are where we find the most skin cancers,” Vogelsang said. “Be sure you’re protected from head to toe.”
These parts should be included in application:
• Ears and nose. “The ears and nose are among the most common areas where skin cancer is found,” Vogelsang said. “Make sure you apply sunscreen to the whole ear and nose, including the tops and the middle of your ear and tip of the nose.” The sun’s rays can also reach you through car windows, where your ear and arm can get exposed.
• Tops of feet. If you are wearing sandals or flip-flops, the delicate skin on the tops of your feet gets lots of sun. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen here.
• Eyelids. “Your sunglasses are the best way to protect your eyelids from burns,” Vogelsang said. “And you should ensure your sunglasses provide 100% UV protection.” Special eye creams with SPF or blockers like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are available. Wearing a hat also can reduce sun exposure to your eyelids.
• Scalp. Here’s another time your hat comes in handy. “Your scalp is one of those places you might not immediately think of applying sunscreen, but exposed areas like parts in the hair or bald spots are particularly vulnerable,” Vogelsang said. “Wear sunscreen, or make sure you cover your scalp with a hat.”
• Lips. Wear a lip balm with SPF, and reapply frequently. The lower lip gets much more exposure to the sun.
In addition to sunscreen, covering skin with lightweight clothing can help avoid the damaging sunburn that can lead to skin cancer later on. People should consider wearing a wide-brim hat as well.
“Limiting time outdoors during peak sun exposure time can also help protect you from the strongest rays,” Vogelsang said. “Those hours in the summer are generally between about 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.”
Skin care important during hot summer months
