Here’s something you may not realize – skin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in the States. It makes sense: your skin is your largest organ, and it regenerates on a regular basis, which leaves more room for mutations. But, also, people still refuse to do their due diligence when it comes to sunscreen.
According to the CDC and the American Cancer Society, melanoma rates have been on the rise for the past 30 years, with over 90,000 new cases being diagnosed this year. That’s crazy, cause people didn’t used to have sunscreen at all!
There are plenty of choices out there when it comes to sunscreens that protect against both the UVA and UVB rays that increase your risk of melanoma, and according to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should be using at least an ounce if you need to cover your entire body.
Oh, and here’s the real head’s up – you don’t only need it if you’re going to the pool or the beach. You should be slathering the stuff on your face, arms, legs, and any other body parts that are exposed to the sun on an everyday basis. Recommended products include zinc-oxide or titanium-dioxide and boast an SPF factor of no less than 30.
People are more diligent than they used to be when it comes to sunscreen, but with the destabilization of the ozone layer, the sun’s rays have gotten stronger. So examine your regimen and find the kinks, people. Future you and your skin will thank you.
h/t: Scary Mommy