Skin Cancer & Sun Safety

Skin cancer is directly related to sun exposure. Sun damage is cumulative — and the results of too much sun may not show up for two or three decades. Shielding your skin should be year-round, lifelong and everyday habit.

Keep safe in the sun:

• Wear a hat with a wide brim.

• Use sun protection any time you are in the sun for more than 10 minutes.

• Use a sunblock or a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15.

• Some foods and medications can make you more sensitive to the sun. They include parsley, figs, carrots, celery, limes, oral contraceptives, antihistamines, tetracycline, antidepressants and thiazide diuretics.

• Skin products such as Retin-A or renova or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) may also increase sensitivity.

• The best protection — stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

If you'd like to receive a "Safe Summer" packet in the mail, please send your name and address to info@southcoast.org. The packet includes sun screen, summer recipes and our tip cards.

This information is not a substitute for consultation with a personal physician.

Click here for more information from the American Cancer Society