Skipping Sunscreen? It's a Bigger Deal Than You Think!

We've all experienced it— spending a beautiful spring day outside, only to come home and find we're as red as a tomato. Sunburns are painful, and while peeling might seem like the worst part, the real danger lies in the damage occurring beneath the surface. 

As skin damage builds up over time, each moment spent unprotected in the sun adds to the risk of premature aging and skin cancer. The good news? A few simple habits can dramatically reduce your risk— beginning with consistent sunscreen use, protective clothing, and regular skin checks. 

So before you step outside for that next backyard BBQ, gardening session, or soccer tournament, let's discuss how to protect your skin and reduce your risk of skin cancer. 

UVA and UVB— The Danger you Can't See

The sun's warmth may feel good on your skin, but it can also be deceptively harmful. Even if you don't see or feel the damage immediately, ultraviolet (UV) radiation is constantly affecting your skin cells— and the effects add up over time. 

There are two primary types of ultraviolet (UV) rays that pose a threat to your skin, both of which can cause long-term damage even if you don't see or feel it happening right away. UVA and UVB rays work differently, but both contribute to premature aging, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Understanding how these rays affect your skin can help you take the right steps to protect yourself every time you step outside. 

• UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, accelerating the aging process by breaking down collagen and elastin. This leads to wrinkles, sunspots, and loss of skin elasticity over time. UVA rays are also linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, as they can alter DNA at the cellular level. 
   
• UVB rays are the main culprits behind sunburn. These rays directly damage the skin's surface, causing redness, irritation, and inflammation. But beyond the short-term burn, UVB rays play a significant role in the development of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. 

No Sun in View? UV Still Sees You

Many people assume sunburn is only a concern on bright, sunny days. However, UV rays don't take a day off. They're present year-round— even when it's cloudy, cool, or raining. 

"UV exposure isn't just a summer concern," explains Dr. Esther Tan, a medical oncologist at the Archbold Cancer Center in Thomasville, Georgia. "Make no mistake: your skin is still affected even if you don't feel the heat. That's why daily sun protection is essential, regardless of the temperature outside or the time of year."

Here's why UV exposure is a hidden danger, even when the sun isn't shining:

• Clouds don't block UV rays.
  Up to 80% of UV radiation can still reach your skin on overcast days. 
   
• Reflected UV rays add to your exposure.
  Surfaces like water, sand, concrete, and even grass can bounce UV rays back at you, increasing the risk of skin damage.
   
• Windows don't offer full protection.
  While glass can block some UVB rays, UVA rays penetrate through, meaning you're still exposed while driving or sitting near a window.

Sun Safety 101: How to Keep Your Skin Healthy

Since skin damage accumulates over time, each unprotected moment in the sun increases the risk of premature aging and skin cancer. The good news? A few simple habits can significantly lower your risk and keep your skin safe without putting a damper on your springtime fun. 

Sun's Out, SPF On!

Think of sunscreen as your invisible shield against UV rays. Whether you're heading to a picnic, working outdoors, or just running errands, SPF should always be part of your morning routine. 

• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. 
• Apply 30 minutes before stepping outside and reapply every two hours (or more often if swimming or sweating). 
• Don't forget those easy-to-miss spots: ears, lips, back of the neck, hands, and tops of your feet. 

Dress for Sun Success

Looking stylish while staying sun-safe? Yes, it's possible! The right clothing choices can add an extra layers of defense against harmful UV rays. However, it's important to remember that covering up doesn't block out all UV rays. If you can see light through a fabric, UV rays can get through, too. 

• Cover up with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants made from tightly woven fabric. 
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat that protects your face, ears, and neck. 
• Opt for UV-blocking sunglasses to keep your eyes and the skin around them safe. 
• Remember, dark colors generally provide more protection that light colors and dry fabric is generally more protective than wet fabric. 

Stay Shady, Be Smart

The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., making this the prime time for UV exposure—and the riskiest time for your skin. If you need to be outside during peak times, be sure to take extra precautions. 

• Look for natural shade under trees or use an umbrella. 
• Plan outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon when UV rays aren't as intense. 
• Use the shadow test: If your shadow is shorter than you, the sun is at its peak strength. That's when you know it's a good time to take extra precautions. 

Know Your Skin: Spot Skin Cancer Warning Signs Early

According to Dr. Tan, catching skin cancer early can make all the difference. The sooner a suspicious spot is identified, the greater the changes of successful treatment. 

"Skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early," says Dr. Tan. "But it can become dangerous if left unchecked. That's why it's so important to know what to look for and to take action if something seems off. If you notice a new or changing spot on your skin, don't wait—get it checked as soon as possible by your primary care provider or dermatologist."

Monthly Skin Self-Check: A Simple Habit Could Save Your Life

A full-body self-exams takes just a few minutes and can help you detect any unusual changes early. Here's how to do it effectively: 

• Use a full-length mirror for a clear view of your body. 
• Check hard-to-see areas like your back, scalp, and behind your ears using a handheld mirror or asking a partner for help. 
• Look for new or changing spots, moles, or patches of skin that seem different from the rest. 

The ABCDEs of Skin Checks: What to Look For

One of the easiest ways to identify a concerning mole or spot is to follow the ABCDE rule during your monthly skin self-check. Here's what to look for:

• A - Asymmetry: One half of a mole that doesn't match the other. 
• B - Border: Edges are irregular, blurred, or not well-defined. 
• C - Color: Uneven color or multiple shades of brown, black, red, or even blue. 
• D - Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser (about 6mm). 
• E - Evolving: Any changes in size, shape, color, or texture over time. 

Be Proactive About Your Skin Health

Skin cancer is the most common types of cancer in the U.S., but it's also one of the most preventable. Regular self-checks and getting professional skin exams, as recommended, allow you to catch concerns early and take the necessary steps to protect your health. 

If you're unsure about a spot or have concerns about your skin, make an appointment with an Archbold Primary Care provider in Thomasville, Cairo, Camilla, or Pelham today!