Protecting Your Skin During the Summer Months

As the summer sun beckons us outdoors, it’s crucial to remember that while enjoying the warmth and sunshine, we must also protect our skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Here, we’ll share some essential tips for protecting your skin during the summer months, discuss the types of sun-related skin cancers, and emphasize the importance of self-examinations and regular skin checks with your primary care doctor at Capital Internal Medicine Associates. 

Essential Tips for Protecting Your Skin

Apply Sunscreen Regularly:
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Apply it generously on all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before going outdoors.
Reapply every two hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating.

Wear Protective Clothing:
Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face, ears, and neck.
Use sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes.

Seek Shade:
Avoid direct sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest.
Stay under umbrellas, trees, or other shelters when outdoors.

Stay Hydrated:
Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Avoid beverages that can dehydrate you, such as alcohol and caffeinated drinks.

Be Mindful of Reflective Surfaces:
Water, sand, and concrete can reflect and intensify UV rays, increasing your risk of sunburn.
Take extra precautions when near these surfaces.

Types of Sun-Related Skin Cancers Prolonged and unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to various types of skin cancer, the most common being: 

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
This is the most common type of skin cancer, often appearing as a translucent bump on the skin.
It usually develops on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders, and back.
BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body but can cause significant damage to surrounding tissues if not treated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer.
It typically presents as a red, scaly patch or a sore that may crust or bleed.
Like BCC, it is commonly found on sun-exposed areas of the body.
SCC can grow larger and spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.

Melanoma:
The most serious type of skin cancer, melanoma can develop in an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot on the skin.
Melanomas are less common but more dangerous because they can spread rapidly to other parts of the body.
Early detection and treatment are crucial for a favorable outcome.

The Importance of Self-Examinations and Regular Skin Checks Regular self-examinations and professional skin checks are vital for early detection and successful treatment of skin cancer. Here’s what you can do: 

Self-Examination:
Conduct monthly self-examinations to check for new moles or changes in existing moles.
Use a mirror to examine hard-to-see areas or ask a family member for help.
Look for asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and any evolving changes in moles.

Regular Skin Checks with Your Doctor:
Schedule annual skin checkups with your primary care doctor at Capital Internal Medicine Associates.
Your doctor can perform a thorough examination, identify suspicious spots, and provide personalized advice on skin protection.  Early detection of skin cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Early Detection is Key 
At Capital Internal Medicine Associates, we are committed to helping you maintain healthy skin through regular checkups and early detection of potential issues. Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is essential, but equally important is being vigilant about changes in your skin and seeking professional care when needed. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your skin checkup today and take the first step towards ensuring your skin stays healthy all year round. 

Protect your skin, protect your health. Schedule a skin checkup with us today! 
For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit Capital Internal Medicine Associates.  

  #HealthySkin #SummerSafety #SkinCancerAwareness #EarlyDetection #CapitalInternalMedicine