April showers bring May flowers – but it isn’t all about warm weather and beautiful blossoms. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, meaning it’s the perfect time to learn how to properly protect your skin.
At Cabana Life, we’re dedicated to keeping you healthy and safe. After all, every product we make is built entirely around your skin’s wellbeing! So naturally, we're excited that there's a whole month of the year devoted to bringing awareness to skin cancer, and more importantly, how to reduce your risk. But before we discuss some tips for keeping your skin safe, let’s talk a bit more about what this month is all about.
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer affects people of every age, gender, and ethnicity. It's a disease that one in five Americans will develop by the time they turn 70. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation reports that more people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the United States than all other cancers combined. The most devastating part about this statistic, though, is that skin cancer is highly preventable.
Skin cancer is often referred to as a “lifestyle disease,” which means that its greatest risk factors are associated with a lack of protection. It's never too early or too late to start practicing skin protection. So, without further ado, let's talk about the many ways you can go about keeping yourself safe from that thing we all love so much – the sun.
Cover Up
We know, we know – as it gets warmer outside, you want to wear fewer layers. That's only natural! But there are a few ways you can protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays while still enjoying some warm-weather fashion. In fact, that’s why we do what we do!
We make sun-protective clothing that keeps you safe while still looking stylish for everyday wear. Slipping into something from Cabana Life means you’re suiting yourself up with 50+ ultraviolet (UV) protection that blocks 98% of UVA and UVB rays. Not only is it the responsible thing to do for your skin, but it’s the fashionable thing, too!
Wear Sunscreen
This one may seem obvious, but trust us, people forget about sunscreen all the time! Always use a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, no matter how long you’re going outside for. It’s especially important to apply sunscreen to your face every morning, as it’s the one part of your body that’s constantly seen by the sun. And for extended outdoor activities – for instance, if you’re at the beach, walking around town, or just lounging on your deck – opt for a water-resistant, broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and remember to re-apply frequently.
Get Shady
There’s no shame in getting out of the sun and seeking some shade, even on those gloriously sunny days. The UV index is always highest between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so if you’re worried about getting too much UV exposure, or you start to feel yourself burn, run for cover (not actually, but a wide-brimmed hat or sun umbrella isn’t a bad thing to have around)!
Here’s a simple tip from the Skin Cancer Foundation: go by the “shadow rule.” This means that if your shadow is shorter than you are tall, the UV radiation is strong. If it’s longer than your height, it’s less intense. Et voila – an easy rule of thumb for preventing overexposure and promoting all-around safe sun practices.
Don't Get Burned
Okay, we know this is easier said than done. But if you abide by the aforementioned tips, you're much less likely to end up with a sunburn. The National Foundation for Cancer Research reports that roughly 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers and about 86% of melanomas are associated with exposure to UV radiation from the sun. That’s a rather staggering statistic, especially considering how easy it is to avoid too much sun exposure.
It’s important to practice sun protection all year round – even during the winter. If you live in a snowy place, the sun often reflects off of the snow’s white surface. This can lead to even worse burns than those experienced in the summertime. Have you ever seen a skier or snowboarder with a goggle tan after a day on the slopes? Not good!
No matter what time of year, wearing sun protective pieces, like those offered by Cabana Life, are an easy way to keep your skin safe.
What You Should Know About Melanoma
Melanomas can develop anywhere on the body, and they're often overlooked because of this. The eyes, fingernails, feet, and mouth are common places for melanomas to hide, particularly on darker colored skin. Be sure to check yourself frequently and take a trip to your doctor or dermatologist right away if you see something new or abnormal.
Smart Skin is Healthy Skin
Skin cancer is tricky; it hides in plain sight and is caused by one of the things we love most about the outdoors! Nevertheless, we must protect ourselves accordingly. A great way to celebrate National Skin Cancer Awareness Month is by practicing the above tips and helping to spread the word about proper protection. And, as always, be sure to shop Cabana Life’s selection of sun-protective clothing for an easy and fashionable way to stay safe.