Slip. Slop. Slap. Wrap. – Practical Advice on Preventing Skin Cancer

We all need some sun exposure; it’s our primary source of vitamin D, which helps us absorb calcium for stronger, healthier bones. But, prolonged sun exposure, without sunscreen, is not the answer.

Sunlight contains three types of ultraviolet rays: UVA (skin-aging and wrinkle-causing, UVB (responsible for sunburns and cataracts) and the lesser known UVC (which are blocked by the ozone layer and don’t reach the earth).

You can protect yourself from harmful UVA and UVB rays by remembering this catchy phrase from the American Cancer Society:

Slip. Slop. Slap. Wrap.

SLIP on a shirt.

Clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, pants and long skirts can provide different levels of UV protection. A tightly-woven fabric is recommended. A good rule of thumb: if you can see light through the clothing, UV can pass through. Be aware that covering up does not block all UV rays, which leads us to the next tip…

SLOP on the sunscreen.

Sunscreen is available in many different forms such as gels, lotions, wipes and lip balms. Some makeup even includes SPF (sun protection factor) benefits. Given the plethora of options, there’s just no good reason not to use sunscreen. Your skin needs protection every single day, even the cloudy and rainy days. Read the labels when choosing sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a minimum SPF 30, but the higher the number, the more protection.

SLAP on a hat.

A hat with at least a 2- to 3-inch brim is ideal because it covers your face completely, even the nose, forehead, ears and, of course, your scalp.

WRAP on the sunglasses.

UV-blocking sunglasses are important for protecting the delicate skin around the eyes as well as the eyes themselves. They don’t have to be expensive; look for glasses that block 99-100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. Large-framed glasses and wraparound glasses are more likely to protect your eyes from light coming in at different angles and children need smaller versions, but not toy sunglasses.

UV rays are strongest with the sun is at its highest (around mid-day). When possible, limit your time outdoors when the sun is most intense.

Teach kids by example.

Kids need extra protection for their delicate skin. By practicing Slip. Slop. Slap. Wrap with the whole family, your children will learn by example and make a habit of protecting their skin for a lifetime.

More information on skin cancer prevention and early detection can be found online at www.cancer.org, the website for the American Cancer Society.