SUN PROTECTION TIPS

Sun protection involves knowing what might happen if you have too much sun exposure, and what you can do to prevent skin damage.

The risks:

• Skin Cancer (may cause death if left untreated)
• Skin cancer removal (may cause scars)
• Premature aging of the skin (wrinkles and dryness)
• Red scaly pre cancerous spots
• Brown "liver spots"
• Broken blood vessels
• Sunburn and pain

What you can do:

1. Avoid direct sun exposure especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
2. Always use a sunscreen, preferably one that is waterproof (reapply hourly when in the water) and that has a SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher. The higher the SPF is, the greater protection it gives. Choose sunscreens that block UVA and UVB. Facial makeup should contain a sunscreen of at least SPF 15. Remember: Most sun exposure happens while walking to and from the car and as other incidental exposure and not just on special occasions, e.g. at the beach, on a picnic, at sports events.
3. Wear sun protective clothing made with tightly woven fabrics. Hat brims should be at least 3 inches wide.
4. Avoid sun-tanning parlors. Any suntan means skin damage.
5. Use self-tanning products, but remember the "tan" will not provide sun protection. The product may or may not contain sunscreen-be sure to check the labels.
6. Check your skin and your loved ones' skin regularly. Your health care provider should examine any growth that is irregular in size, shape or color.

For more information on skin cancer and all types of cancer you can call the National Cancer Institute at 1-800-4-CANCER or visit their web site: National Cancer Institute.

Questions regarding sun protection and other health problems may be addressed to Student Health Center personnel at (775) 784-6598.

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