Why Taking Sun Protection Measures is so Important

Skin cancer is on the rise because each year the ozone layer can block less and less of the sun's ultraviolet radiation.  UVR is the cause of skin cancer, which can be prevented by simply taking precautions and practicing some basic sun protection measures.

There are more than two million cases of skin cancer worldwide every single year, and a third of all cancers diagnosed in a year is skin cancer.  These numbers show us just how vital it is to keep your skin safe from the sun.  All it takes is one sunburn to almost double your risk of developing cancer of the skin.

In addition to the increased risk of cancer, there are also some less harmful but still unsightly reasons to take care and stay out of the sun.  Too much sun exposure can cause your skin to age beyond your years by creating age spots, wrinkles, and other lines.  These signs of aging are largely preventable by taking the proper sun protective measures.

Most articles of summer clothing offer a UPF, or ultraviolet protection factor, of just five, which is definitely not enough to prevent damage.  The only way to keep your skin safe is to opt for sun protective clothing and swimwear.  Many sun protective articles offer a UPF of 50+, and your options are not just limited to swimwear.  Baby clothes, hiking clothes, and even fishing vests all can contain sun protection that will keep your skin safe from the sun's radiation.

Options in sun protective swimwear include board shorts, one-piece suits, rash guards, and also regular swimsuits.  Additionally, there are cover-ups, shoes, and hats to keep your entire body safe from the radiation of the sun.  Always remember to apply sunscreen to all of the parts of your body that are not covered by sun protective clothing or swimwear.  Sunscreen should be applied at least a half hour before going outdoors, and it should be reapplied frequently.  A minimum of 30 SPF is recommended on your sunscreen to ensure that it provides adequate protection.  Waterproof sunscreen can help prevent it from being washed off your skin so quickly, but you should still reapply it every two hours because it does get absorbed deeply into the skin overtime.