Find out how to protect your skin from cancer.
As with any health problem, it’s always easier to prevent problems than it is to treat them. Here in Daytona Beach, FL, our dermatologist Dr. Jeffrey Heller is focused on ways to protect individuals from skin cancer. While we all know just how glorious the Florida sun can feel, especially during the spring and summer months, it’s also important that you protect yourself from skin cancer later in life, too. Here are some helpful tips to reduce your risk,
Find Some Shade
The sun’s rays are strongest between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm; unfortunately, this is usually when most people are outdoors enjoying the beautiful weather. While we don’t expect you to just avoid a gorgeous day by spending it inside it’s important to sit in shady spots if you’re planning to go out.
If you are lying on the beach make sure to do so under an umbrella. Want to sit down and enjoy a lovely lunch? No problem! Just find a place that has an awning or ample coverage.
Always Apply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Shopping for sunscreen can be a bit confusing, especially since there are so many options from which to choose. Our Daytona Beach, FL, dermatologist Dr. Heller and his team can advise you on which type to use if you are stumped; however, follow these rules and you should be a-okay,
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has at least an SPF of 15. Broad-spectrum means that sunscreen will protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
- If you plan to be outside for an extended period of time, you should opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
- Look for a water-resistant sunscreen; however, even water-resistant sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming.
- Approximately two tablespoons of sunscreen are enough to cover your entire body. Remember to apply sunscreen for at least 30 minutes before going outside.
Perform Monthly Self-Exams on Your Skin
It’s important that you examine your body thoroughly from head to toe at least once a month to look for new moles or changes in moles. Any moles that bleed, crust, ooze or have changed shape, size or color warrant a trip to the dermatologist’s office. Even if you don’t notice any problems it’s still a good idea to see our Daytona Beach, FL, dermatologist once a year for a professional skin cancer screening.
Whether you have questions about preventing skin cancer or you need to schedule your annual skin cancer screening with our Daytona Beach, FL, dermatologist Dr. Heller, call Heller Dermatology Center today at (386) 239-8700.