Written by Stephanie Sutton, M.D. –
People are enjoying their time outdoors even more than ever. Walking around the neighborhood, doing yard work, or eating a meal on the patio are some of our favorite moments these days while social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
May is Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month. You can still enjoy the sunshine outdoors while protecting your skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin cancer is America’s most common cancer and it is also one of the most preventable cancers.
Ways to go outside and still protect your skin:
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen
- Wear protective clothing with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) which you can purchase from brands such as Coolibar, Patagnoia, REI, etc.
- Put on a hat, sunglasses, sun gloves, and long sleeves when possible
- Spend time in the shade
- Avoid the most direct sun rays from 10am-4pm
Don’t forget about the kids. You can put hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen on your kids when they play outside. Pull down the stroller shade when you are going on a walk to protect their face from the sun. Put their outdoor toys in the shade.
If you see a spot on your skin that looks suspicious, schedule an appointment with a provider at Sutton Dermatology + Aesthetics.
Sunscreen is 15% off during the month of May in coordination with Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month. Check out the online store here.
Stephanie Sutton, MD, is a contributing author to the Sutton Dermatology Blog. Stephanie Sutton is a psychiatrist and she focuses on wellness.
