During the summer months, especially at the start of the season, protecting your skin from sun damage can often be overlooked. Which is why May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. However, skincare should be an inherent part of your daily routine—like brushing your teeth or washing your hands after you go to the bathroom—all year long. Why? Because skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Luckily, it’s cancer that can be easily avoided and prevented. UV rays are always attacking your skin, but with the proper defense, you can ensure that your skin stays youthful and healthy. Here’s how to do it.
1. Invest in skincare products that have SPF 30. If you take the time to moisturize and apply foundation each morning before work, make sure that the products you’re using have built-in sunscreen. Find several sun protection products at the Sanctuary Spa like iS Extreme Protect SPF 30 or SkinCeuticals UV Defense Sunscreen. Love your moisturizer that doesn’t have SPF? Make it a point to add a layer of face sunscreen to your facial regime. After you put on moisturizer, slather on a layer of your favorite sunscreen.
2. Wear a hat. Heading to a sporting event or going on a hike? Don’t forget a hat. In fact, keep a couple of extra baseball caps in your car at all times. If you find yourself frequently taking walks, consider putting a foldable hat in your purse or office desk. A brim that is four inches all the way around will ensure that your scalp and ears are shielded from sun damage. From a classic fedora to a sporty visor, there are tons of different types of stylish hats available. Head to The Shop and find the oversized straw hat of your dreams, then wear it all summer long.
3. Cover up. Wear sun protective clothing. A lightweight long-sleeved shirt, rash guard, or printed caftan will protect your arms and chest from unnecessary skin damage. Oversized sunglasses with ultra-violet protection will shield your eyes (and the delicate, wrinkle-prone skin surrounding them) from the sun.
4. Seek shade. Sure the Vitamin D can feel intoxicating, but after an hour of straight sun exposure, it’s time to seek shade. Sit under an umbrella or find a large tree to lounge under.
5. Avoid sun exposure during peak hours. The sun is strongest and therefore most damaging between 10 a.m and 2 p.m. Try to avoid direct sunlight during this time.
6. Use sunscreen daily, no matter what. For the most effective application, apply to skin before putting on your swimsuit. This way you won’t miss any spots. Use at least an ounce, or a palmful, to cover all exposed areas of your body. Apply it generously and often, every two hours or more. If you’re swimming or sweating, apply and reapply multiple times a day—which is why you’ll find sunscreen at our poolside concierge tents this summer. Prefer a spray? Apply indoors. Wind can cause the spray to fly away before it hits your body. After you spray it on, rub it in with your hands. Keep travel sunscreen in your purse at all times, so you’re never without sun protection.
7. Know your skin. Frequently check your skin for moles and other changes. If you spot something out of the ordinary, don’t hesitate to visit a dermatologist. When it comes to skin cancer, it’s better to be safe than sorry. After a day at the pool, apply after-sun lotion or another moisturizer that will hydrate skin.
8. Start early. Teach your kids the importance of sun protection when they are young. Make applying sunscreen a part of their daily routine whether they are going to school, summer camp, or the pool. Be a role model and use sunscreen in front of your children, so they know that its crucial to healthy and happy skin.
9. Combine all of these strategies. When it comes to preventing skin damage, you can’t have too much protection. Apply sunscreen, wear a rash guard, sit under an umbrella, and avoid the sun during peak hours. Do all of these action items together, and you’ll be able to have fun in the sun without any life-harming burns.
And since we know you’ll be soaking up more fun in the sun at the Bay Club this summer (and making the most of our new poolside concierge service), it’s important to take all the precautions necessary to stay skin safe!