Protecting Your Skin in Summer

  • Published
  • By Marilyn Leggett
  • Civilian Health Promotion Service
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Dr. Martin Weinstock, chairman of The American Cancer Society's Skin Cancer Advisory Group, states "The healthiest shade of your skin is the color you were born with."

Despite that learned piece of advice, most people look forward to the summertime when they can enjoy outdoor activities and recreation. And, many still enjoy the appearance of a suntan. 

Dr. Weinstock suggests that changing the color of your skin will only lead to trouble in the long run in the form of skin cancers. Studies show that ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning salons may also lead to premature wrinkles and other sun damage to the skin such as discoloration and loss of elasticity. He suggests that everyone should "slip, slop and slap," referring to an Australian safety campaign to "slip on a shirt, slop on some sunscreen and slap on a hat." 

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers with more than one million skin cancers diagnosed in the United States each year. There is a lot that can be done to protect against skin cancer, and it is important to catch problems early. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a form of invisible energy given off by the sun and there are three wavelengths of these: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA and UVB rays are those that damage the skin and can lead to skin cancers. 

Small amounts of exposure to sunlight help the body make Vitamin D, but too much sun can be problematic. Sun exposure can also be cumulative, so avoiding excessive sun exposure is important on a daily basis. 

Here are some helpful guidelines: UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so plan activities around these times and, if activities are outdoors, shield the skin and eyes. UV rays reach the earth on cloudy days and can penetrate water. Sand and snow reflect sunlight, increasing the amount of UV radiation a person may receive. 

When in the sun, wear clothing to protect as much skin as possible. Long-sleeved shirts in dark colors are more protective than, say, a white t-shirt. Dry fabric is more protective than wet fabric. If light can be seen through a fabric, UV rays can get through as well. A hat with at least a 2- to 3-inch brim all around is ideal; a baseball cap can protect the front and top of the head but not the back of the neck or the ears, where skin cancers commonly develop. 

Always use sunscreen for UVA and UVB protection and follow the label directions for applying. It is important to use sunscreen generously. Sunscreens should not be used on babies younger than 6 months, according to the American Cancer Society; they should be protected with hats, clothing, and minimizing exposure to sunlight. Sunless tanning products do not protect from UV damage. Wear sunglasses and make sure children use protective sunglasses, not toy sunglasses. Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps. 

It is important to check the skin once a month. This can be done with a mirror in a well-lit room. A spouse, family member, or close friend may assist for hard-to-see areas. A step-by-step instruction in self-examination and more information on skin cancer can be found in "Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection" by the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org. 

Civilian Health Promotion Service (CHPS) will offer a Skin Cancer class on July 25 from 11a.m. to noon at the HAWC with registration on A-3. CHPS provides cholesterol screenings to DoD civilians in Eglin organizations or by individual appointment. In addition, CHPS provides an array of classes each month at the HAWC or, when requested, at the workplace. Everyone with Eglin access is welcomed to the classes. Blood pressure checks and individual health consultations to discuss lifestyle changes can also be scheduled by appointment. 

For more information call 883-8024/8025.