Protection For Fun in the Sun

As a dermatologist, many people often ask me how to protect their skin during warm sunny months. The key is sunscreen. It is meant for all skin types, from porcelain white to the deepest mahogany. No skin tone is safe without it! Below are some tips on sunscreen that will keep your skin safe while walking around the city of Detroit, watching a good Tigers game, enjoying the Detroit Riverwalk views, or hanging out on the Belle Isle beach.

Use SPF 30 or higher. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) in sunscreen measures how well your skin will be protected from harmful UV rays. A SPF of 30, for example, allows you to be in the sun 30 times longer than without protection. The higher the SPF, the more UV rays you're protected against. Using the right sunscreen is important in protecting against sunburns, skin damage, and skin cancer.
Make sure your sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays and is "broad-spectrum."
Apply and reapply. And then reapply again. Make sure you're reapplying at least once every 2 hours or sooner if swimming or sweating.
Applying sunscreen can be a great time to check your skin. Know your moles and keep an eye out for changes. Make an annual appointment at the Carter Snell Skin Center (CSSC) to ensure your skin is examined by a dermatologist that is trained to identify changes or spots of concern, especially in areas that are difficult for you to see.

Happy #DermTipTuesday!