The Danger of the Sun
We all know that the sun is damaging to our skin, so how do you protect your skin this summer? Too much sun exposure without the proper protection can cause premature aging, such as wrinkles and sun spots, but can also cause skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States and worldwide. The most common types of skin cancer in the U.S. are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. The vast majority of these cancers are caused by sun exposure. In addition to sun exposure, there are risk factors associated with skin cancer.
The good news? Studies suggest that daily use of sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher can reduce the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by 40% and melanoma by as much as 50%, when used as directed.
Tips to Protect your Skin
Ah, summer is finally here! The pools are open and the beach is ready for us to sit in the sand and relax. But with summer comes increased sun exposure, so now is a good time to review how to protect your skin this summer.
The Skin Cancer Foundation has several recommendations for staying safe in the sun. Here are a few summer skincare tips:
- Wear a cover-up or protective clothing when out in the sun
- Seek out shady spots when you are outside, or make your own if you’re at the beach with an umbrella!
- Wear your sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher – and make sure you follow those directions
- Stay away from tanning beds. Want a safe way to achieve that summer glow? Try custom spray tanning offered at Salt!
- Pay attention to changes in your skin and notify your healthcare provider immediately if you see anything suspicious – early detection is key.
Correcting Sun Damage
At Salt Spa & Wellness Center, our experienced team can address many of your skin concerns such as premature aging, wrinkles, and sun spots or discoloration due to sun exposure. From DiamondGlow facials that exfoliate away sun damage to corrective lasers, we are sure to have a treatment option just for you. Contact us to schedule your consultation.
