Summer is finally here. Bring on the beaches and kick your kids out of the house and into that sunshine—but before you head out to experience the sun in all its glory, make sure you have enough Protection.

Just because you aren’t out trying to get a tan doesn’t mean the effects of the sun won’t harm your Skin. Everyday exposure can be enough to harm your skin, whether or not your skin tans or burns easily. And the effects of sun exposure aren’t limited to aesthetics. Not only will that sunshine increase your chances of getting sunspots and wrinkles, but you can also get extensive burns from the sun—and you can get melanoma.

What is melanoma?

Melanoma is a form of cancer that affects the skin. Despite increasing scientific awareness and study, the rates for new melanoma of the skin cases have been steadily rising by an average of 1.4% each year for the past decade. It is estimated that close to 10,000 people will die of melanoma this year.

Why is melanoma on the rise?

There are a couple different reasons why new cases of melanoma are becoming so much more prevalent in spite of scientific study that warns against the hazards of the sun. First, this is an indication of environmental concern. With ozone depletion, the sun’s rays are getting more intense and are thus causing more damage to the skin in shorter periods of time. Second, people just aren’t heeding the warnings against UV exposure, and third, some of the products on the market that are supposed to help keep you safe simply don’t work.

How can you keep your skin safe this summer?

There are a few simple methods that can help you protect yourself—and your kids—from sun damage this summer.

1) Cover up

Wear long-sleeved shirts and clothing that covers up more of your skin—especially when you know you are going to be outside for longer periods of time. Wear a hat with a brim to keep the sun off your noggin, and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from sun damage.

2) Navigate around the sun

Find shady spots when you are going to be sitting outside. The sun is most intense between 10 A.M. and 4 P.M., so also try to make your plans for early morning or late afternoon to effect those most harmful moments.

3) Wear protection

Even when it is cloudy your skin is still at risk to harmful sun exposure. Work sunscreen into your daily routine all year round. A 2013 survey by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology revealed that only 14% of men reported wearing sunscreen when they’ve been in the sun for more than an hour. Women are reportedly more judicious, but still only 30% report regular application. Providing your skin with daily protection will go a long way in protecting yourself from skin cancer—and remember to use a high enough SPF, and to reapply when you are out in the sun long enough.

Unfortunately, however, applying any type of sun protection isn’t quite enough. You also need to do some research into the products you are using to ensure they are actually providing you with the protection you think you need. According to EWG, 80% of the US sun protection products have been found to provide inadequate protection, harmful ingredients, or both.

4) Seek help

Finally, if you have concerns about your skin, drop into our walk in medical clinic today to get yourself checked out.

The post The Importance of Protecting Your Skin This Summer appeared first on .