Fewer melanomas develop with daily use of sunscreen.

Excessive sun exposure over a period of years is a known risk factor for melanoma (a malignant skin cancer). Sunscreens were developed to help prevent sunburns which are associated with melanoma risk. Now Australian researchers have shown in a large 14 year, community-based study that melanoma risk was reduced by 50% in those who used sunscreen (SPF16) daily compared to those who used it on a discretionary basis.

PositiveTip: Twenty minutes daily of noon-time sun exposure may be good for Vitamin D levels, and daily use of sunscreen seems to reduce the risk of melanoma, especially in sunny areas of the world.

Is there such thing as a “safe tan”?

UVA rays and UVB rays are the sun rays that cause skin cancer, aging of the skin, wrinkles and other problems. There are several important ways to protect your skin from these harmful rays:

• Sunscreen: Choose sunscreens that say “broad-spectrum”. Also choose one’s that have a sun protection factor (spf) of 15 or greater. Apply 15-30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours that you remain outdoors.
• Protective clothing: wear long sleeves, pants, hats, sunglasses and collars when you can.
• Shade: seek shade as much as possible, it won’t completely protect you, but it will help. Ultraviolet rays are present on cloudy days too, so make sure you are protected.