New Delhi: 

In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Anindita Sarkar, Chief Medical Officer, Clinikally & AAYNA Clinics, listed the basic dos and don’ts to dodge skin cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, emerging at a very fast pace. It occurs when there is an irregular growth of skin cells. The risk continues to grow with rising temperatures, increased exposure to UV radiation, and lifestyle factors like working outdoors or tanning habits. But there is good news. Skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer across the world. A few mindful steps can go a long way in reducing the chances of developing skin cancer. Here’s a strategic guide to understand the dos and don’ts of protecting your skin and staying safe under the sun’s exposure.

Wear Protective Clothing

Protective clothing can make a big difference in protecting the skin from harmful UV exposure. Do wear wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and clothing that covers your arms and legs, especially if you are going for extended outdoor activities. Additionally, don’t assume that standing in the shade or wearing light-colored clothing alone can protect you. UV rays can reflect off surfaces like water and even concrete and reach your skin.

Starting with the Basics

As a basic norm, apply sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors near windows, exposing your body to the sun. You can choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it 30 minutes before stepping out. It is also important to reapply every two hours if you are stepping out in harsh sunlight, after swimming, or sweating. Having said that, don’t make the mistake of relying solely on SPF in your makeup or moisturizers. These products often don’t offer enough coverage, and most people don’t apply them in sufficient amounts to get the advertised protection.

Keep Hydration Levels High

Hydration and skincare play a pivotal role in the upkeep of your skin cells. Keep your skin well-moisturized and drink plenty of water, as hydrated skin forms a barrier against damage. Apart from this, do not use expired sunscreen or products that have been stored in hot cars or exposed to direct sunlight. They may lose their effectiveness and give false security.

Regular Skin Inspection

Make it a habit to inspect your skin regularly. Check for new moles, spots, or any changes in existing ones as early detection can be life-saving in several ways. Alongside that, schedule an annual skin check with a dermatologist and don’t ignore changes in your skin or delay seeing a doctor if something seems off. Skin cancer can be subtle at first, but it can spread quickly if untreated.

Bottomline

UV radiation is at its highest, typically from 10 am to 4 pm. Try to stay in the shade during peak sun hours and don’t use cloudy weather as an excuse to skip sun protection, as up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds. Hence, your skin protection from cell damage or cancer is a mix of proactive care and smart avoidance. Wear sunscreen, cover u,p and stay alert to changes to maintain your skin health and stay safe even under the sun.

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