How dermatologists really feel about sun exposure

Dallas, TX area patients who are concerned about the care of their skin need to take the proper steps to protect it, especially during the days of harsh sun exposure. Skin cancer is a serious problem that many patients can avoid with proper care. In fact, this cancer is the number one cancer diagnosed in the entire United States. Patients who have spent hours in the sun with their skin unprotected are greatly increasing their risk of developing skin cancer. This is because UVA and UVB rays from the sun can penetrate into the skin and increase risk with each sunburn.

How dermatologists feel about sun exposure

While it may sound like a good idea to lay out in the sun every day to achieve a beautiful, golden tan, dermatologists highly discourage it. With each exposure to sun without protecting the skin, patients are putting their bodies at risk of developing skin cancer. Tanning and tanning bed use should be avoided entirely, and patients who want to achieve a tanned appearance will want to consider other solutions such as spray tanning or tanning creams. These will provide the results patients desire without putting their skin and overall health at risk for cancer.

How to protect the skin

There are many ways patients can reduce their risk of developing skin cancer:

• Wear SPF broad-band sunscreen every day, regardless of the time spent outside
• Wear long sleeves to cover skin during sunny days
• Avoid tanning or the use of tanning beds
• Avoid spending time outside when the sun’s rays are the strongest, typically between 10am and 4pm
• Wear a hat to prevent exposure on the scalp
• Visit the dermatologist regularly for skin cancer screenings

Discuss your skin care needs

If you live in or around the community of Dallas, TX and are interested in learning how to properly care for your skin every day, our team of professionals at Dermatology Treatment and Research Center are here to help. Call (972) 661-2729 today to book your appointment, and speak with our team about skin care solutions. We are conveniently located at 5310 Harvest Hill Road, Ste 160.