Sun Protection

Your #1 cancer threat is skin cancer, that's why it's important to stay protected from UV rays. It's a very good idea to use a lotion with sunblock in it, that way you'll be protected daily, without worrying about putting on sunblock. Your sunblock or lotion should contain SPF of at least 15. Wearing protective clothing is also a way to prevent sun damage.

There a various ways you can protect yourself with clothing. Hats and sunglasses are very effective. Many of the clothes you already own are naturally sun-protective. Polyester and nylon are best as well as other tightly woven fabrics. Cotton, however, is not a good protection against the sun. Darker colors are also more resistant than lighter shades.

Another option is to buy specially made clothing. Look for labels that say UV protection, or have a UPF (equivalent to SPF) rating.

There are also sun-protective additives that can be used in your laundry that raise the UPF of your clothing such as Rit Sunguard.

With skin cancer being such a high risk, it is crucial to stay protected from UVR. Although sun damage build over years, it is never too late to start protecting yourself.

Source: Woman's Health Source Magazine.