Despite skin specialists insisting every summer on applying additional protection measures to prevent skin cancer, there is still a progressive and worrying increase in the cases of skin cancer or Melanoma. According to a detailed study on melanoma, dermatologists from across the globe conclude that skin cancer mainly occurs when the skin is exposed for prolonged periods to the harsh and harmful rays of the sun. Therefore, the first and foremost tip to avoid skin cancer or melanoma is to avoid prolonged direct exposure of your skin to the sun rays. In this blog, we discuss the 10 top tips to avoid skin cancer or melanoma as recommended by top dermatologists in Australia.
10 Tips to avoid skin cancer or melanoma
1. Apply sunscreen of at least SPF 50 on your skin before exposure and reapply it frequently, especially if you are on the beach or in the pool, and also after each bath. Although many sunscreen brands claim that they are “waterproof”, you still need to be extra careful and ensure that you put on your cream when drying.
2. Avoid the hours of greatest intensity: Exposure to the sun rays should be progressive. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun between 1200 hours and 1600 hours. During this period the rays of the sun fall directly on the earth, and therefore could be more damaging to your skin. Therefore, you need to seek shade and avoid the sun rays during these hours.
3. Do not expose children under three years to the direct rays of the sun, especially during the hours with the lowest incidence of sunlight. A child’s skin is still very delicate and any damage caused by the sun rays due to direct exposure could remain for the rest of their lives.
4. Use proper sun protection when doing outdoor activities, as the rays of the sun can also cause burns. therefore, wear proper sun gear while walking and biking, playing outdoor sports or making snacks on terraces.
5. Do not let your guard down in distinct weather conditions that suddenly drop the heat, such as cloudiness, fresh wind, altitude change, or reflective surfaces such as sand, snow, grass or water.
6. Always use sunglasses, a cap and dry clothes when outdoors. The glasses should contain homologated glasses capable of filtering UVA and UVB rays. Also, remember that wet clothing allows UV rays to pass through. Therefore wear dry and loose clothes when outdoors.
7. Dry yourself thoroughly after every bath. The water drops exert a magnifying effect that promotes sunburn and decreases the effectiveness of sunscreens.
8. Drink plenty of water routinely, as the sun dehydrates the body.
9. Avoid tanning sessions with UVA rays. These rays can contribute to skin cancer and accelerate skin aging.
10. Check for new freckles and moles in your skin. If you notice the appearance of new moles and freckles, or any change in shape, size or colour, then you should visit a dermatologist.
If you are facing issues with your skin or have the slightest doubt about skin cancer or melanoma, and you wish to know about melanoma and its treatment, then visit Nitai Medical and Cosmetic Centre today or contact us at admin@nitai.com.au.
