Protect Your Skin from Skin Cancer

Many skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to the sun’s harmful rays, even if you don’t easily burn.

Here’s how to protect your skin:

Slip! on a shirt

Slop! on sunscreen

Slap! on a hat

Wrap! on sunglasses to protect your eyes and the skin around then

Don’t forget to stay in the shade when possible and avoid mid-day sun. Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps.

Sunscreen Facts

1. Wear sunscreen that is SPF 30 or more, even when it’s cloudy. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factors

2. Apply a thick layer of sunscreen 20 minutes before going into the sun

3. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and when swimming, sweating or drying off with a towel

4. Check the expiration date on your sunscreen bottle to make sure it is still effective

5. Remember to put sunscreen on ears, feet, hands, bald spots, back of the neck & apply lip balm

Checking your Skin

Self-Check

Routinely check moles, brown spots and growth on the skin to make sure there are no changes. Let your doctor know if you notice changes.

By a Doctor

Ask your doctor to check your skin at least yearly.

Did you know

• Skin Cancer is the most common type of cancer
• If you have pale skin or burn easily, you are at higher risk for skin cancer. Be extra careful in the sun.
• Sun exposure occurs when you are outside for a while but ALSO when you are in the sun each day, even for short periods of time. It adds up!
• unburn can occur even when it is cloudy

If you think you may have skin cancer or have any questions about your sun exposure, call your doctor or make an appointment at Union Health Center at 212-206-2755.