May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, so this is a great time to remind you how real it is.

Less than 2 years ago, my husband, Doug, had two procedures performed on his face, to remove Basil Cell Carcinoma.

Earlier this year, I had a biopsy done, to see if I had a spot of skin cancer on my shoulder.

I did end up having it removed, the biopsy did not take care of all of it.

It's so easy to forget the sunscreen, even after going through all of this. As we speak, I have a sunburn on my back. We were at the beach, and I didn't reapply sunscreen like I should have. My son, Chase, also has a burn, even though I coated him in sunscreen. So, be extra cautious this summer, as you enjoy the sunshine!

Since its inception in 1979, The Skin Cancer Foundation has always recommended using a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher as one important part of a complete sun protection regimen. Sunscreen alone is not enough, however. Read our full list of skin cancer prevention tips.

 

  • Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
  • Don’t get sunburned.
  • Avoid tanning and never use UV tanning beds.
  • Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
  • Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
  • Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating.
  • Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.
  • Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.
  • See a dermatologist at least once a year for a professional skin exam.

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