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Expert tips to safeguard against UV rays and skin cancer

With summer in full swing, safeguarding your skin against the sun’s harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays becomes paramount. Mariana Karewicz, a nurse practitioner from Hawaii Pacific Health, recently … Nurse practitioner Mariana Karewicz from Hawaii Pacific Health has shared her top tips for preventing skin damage and skin cancer during summertime. These include avoiding the sun's peak intensity between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., seeking shade and wearing Protective Gear such as long-sleeved shirts and hats with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), aiming for UPF 50+ for optimal protection. Regularly applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher, reapplying every two hours after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. For skin cancer, Karewiciz emphasizes the importance of yearly skin checks.

Expert tips to safeguard against UV rays and skin cancer

Publicados : 10 meses atrás por Chris Latronic no Health

HONOLULU (KHON2) — With summer in full swing, safeguarding your skin against the sun’s harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays becomes paramount. Mariana Karewicz, a nurse practitioner from Hawaii Pacific Health, recently joined WakeUp2Day’s Chris Latronic to shed light on this crucial issue and offer simple yet effective tips for preventing skin damage during beach season.

Here are some top strategies to shield your skin this summer:

• Limit Sun Exposure: Avoid the sun’s peak intensity between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

• Seek Shade: Opt for shady spots whenever possible

• Wear Protective Gear: Utilize clothing with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), such as long-sleeved shirts and hats. Aim for UPF 50+ for optimal protection

• Don Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV radiation, which can reflect off water and sand

• Apply Sunscreen: Regularly apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher, and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming, sweating, or toweling off

When selecting sunscreen, look for these key features:

• Broad-Spectrum Coverage: Ensure protection against both UVA and UVB rays

• High SPF: Opt for SPF 50 or higher for enhanced protection

• Water-Resistant Formulas: Choose water-resistant sunscreen, effective for either 40 or 80 minutes, even if not swimming, as it also helps combat sweat

Areas commonly overlooked for sunscreen application include the neck and chest, where sunburns are prevalent, particularly among women. Remember, cloudy conditions do not offer adequate protection, as up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds on overcast days, leading to potential sunburns.

For those concerned about skin cancer, Karewicz emphasizes the importance of yearly skin checks. Any abnormalities such as redness, crustiness, pain, or sores that don’t heal within a month warrant medical attention. Additionally, irregular moles or marks with dark coloring or jagged edges should be evaluated promptly.

In summary, proactive sun protection measures coupled with regular skin checks are essential for safeguarding against skin damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer during the summer months. When in doubt, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and care.

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