Protect it from the sun
It is always a good idea to protect your skin from the sun, but this is even more important during the summer months, when the sun is especially harsh. Getting out in the sunshine is important for our mental and overall health (plus it’s just fun!), but too much unprotected time in the sun can be a bad thing.
Aim to stay inside from 10 am until 4 pm, the hours when the sun is at its strongest. When you do go outside (no matter the time of day and even if it’s cloudy), make sure to slather on the sunscreen. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and make sure that you reapply it often if you stay outside for long. You should still cover up, even if you are wearing sunscreen, though. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, a long-sleeve shirt, and pants. And don’t forget your eyes – wear sunglasses that block UV rays.
You may be tempted to sit outside to get a great tan, but when you tan you may be doing permanent damage to your skin. Sunbathe for no more than 20 minutes per day.
Take care of your skin so that it can take good care of you. If you notice anything on your skin that just doesn’t look right, such as a change in how a mole looks or a painful, bleeding, or tender growth, make an appointment with your doctor right away. Call the office of Jeffrey C. Dawes, MD, FRCSC Plastic and Dermatologic Surgery in Calgary for help keeping your skin healthy. Call (403) 571-3141 today!