Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US. More than 2 million people are diagnosed annually with the different types of skin cancer. You can protect yourself by wearing cover up clothing and staying in the shade. But if you are in the sun be sure to wear sunscreen.

Sunscreen tips:

  • Purchase broad spectrum as this protects against both UV rays, UVB (sunburn, skin cancer) and UVA (wrinkling, leathering, skin cancer).
  • Sun protection factor (SPF) protects against UVB. Skin reddens in 20 minutes. SPF 15 prevents reddening 15 times longer.
  • Greater than SPF 50 offers little more protection than 50.
  • Moisturizers and make-up with SPF are only good for a few minutes.
  • Apply 2 tablespoons of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside.
  • You will need to reapply every 2 hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.

For more information visit UM Comprehensive Cancer Center.