Skin Cancer

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:

• 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.

• 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.

• The best protectionÑstay 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