UV Safety Month: Protecting your skin when the sun shines its strongest | Health

As a surgical oncologist, I see patients often who thought skin cancer could never happen to them. The truth is that everyone has some risk for developing skin cancer, and those risks are elevated for our beach-loving population.

Research shows that melanoma is the fifth most diagnosed cancer in Delaware. July is UV Safety Month, but we know here in Sussex County that skin safety is important all summer long and anytime you are outdoors.

Knowing the facts, and the steps you can take to care for your skin and reduce your chances of developing skin cancer, is key!

Four ways to protect your skin from UV rays:

• Use sunscreen every day

Wearing sunscreen every time you go outside (not just when you are hitting the pool or the beach) is a healthy habit to establish. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply it generously to all areas of exposed skin and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Buy facial moisturizer with SPF to provide added protection throughout the day. These guidelines apply on cloudy days, and even during the winter. Remember, the sun shines every day.

• Seek shade and cover up

Generally speaking, the sun’s rays are strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. When you are outdoors during these hours, try to stay in a shaded area, when possible. This can reduce your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, and will also help you stay cool. It’s best to go out early in the morning or the late afternoon.

• Wear protective clothing

Rash guards (swim shirts) and wide-brimmed hats can help block UV and keep your skin protected. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) label for added protection.

• Avoid tanning beds

They can expose you to harmful UV radiation that can increase your risk of skin cancer. If you feel you must have tan skin, consider alternatives, such as self-tanning lotions.

Other tips to detect skin cancer early:

• Know your skin

Be keenly aware of any moles or spots on your skin, especially if these spots grow darker, change shape, or begin to bleed or look scaly. Use a mirror to check all areas of your body, including your back, scalp, and the soles of your feet. Knowing the ABCDEs of melanoma clarifies what to look for, and can guide you as you make these assessments:

Asymmetry. Moles that are not symmetrical or that are uneven could signal melanoma.

Border. An irregular or poorly defined border could be a risk factor.

Color. Varied colors in moles include white, black, red, or blue; this also includes loss of pigment.

Diameter. Melanomas are usually larger than a pencil eraser – approximately 6mm.

Evolving. Some moles can change in size and shape and cause itching, bleeding, or become a sore that doesn’t heal.

• Assess your skin regularly

I encourage you to perform a thorough skin self-examination once a month. What you are looking for are any signs of change from one assessment to the next. A mole that has been there for 10 years and isn’t changing at all is probably not one to be concerned about. A new mole, or one that appears to be growing in size or shape, is. If and when you do note changes, the time is right to pick up the phone and call your dermatologist.

• Schedule an annual head-to-toe check

This is by far the easiest and simplest way to ensure any potential areas of concern are found and addressed, quickly. I recommend that everyone — from teens to seniors — have an annual check-up with a dermatologist. Your doctor will perform a more thorough skin examination and may identify any issues that should be addressed, sometimes on the spot. Catching skin issues early can prevent severe health issues and save lives.

• Take advantage of Beebe’s community-based health resources.

My office holds a skin cancer screening clinic every other Thursday from 1 to 4 p.m. for baseline skin checks, and moles that may or may not have changed. If you wish to make an appointment for a skin screening, call (302) 644-0964.

Learn more about James Spellman, MD, at beebehealthcare.org/doctors/james-e-spellman-jr-md.