by michael hodgson

It has gotten to the point where many major papers around the country are listing "burn times" when the sun begins to beat down, and for good reason. Skin cancer death rates are soaring. How do you protect yourself this summer as you head outdoors into the land of sun and fun? The following are suggestions from the Skin Cancer Foundation:

• The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. (11 a.m. and 3 p.m. during daylight savings). Minimize your exposure during this period.
• Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher before every exposure to the sun. Reapply frequently and liberally every two hours for as long as you stay in the sun. Sunscreen should always be reapplied after perspiring heavily or swimming--even if the product claims to be waterproof.
• If you are taking medications, birth-control pills, or using certain cosmetics you risk an increased sensitivity to the sun and a possible allergic reaction when using sunscreen. Check with your doctor or dermatologist for advice.
• Clothing is no guarantee of sun protection. Loose weaves still allow dangerous burning rays through. Wear long-sleeve shirts and pants that are made with tightly woven materials and are loose-fitting. Fair-skinned people should apply sunscreen even under their clothing.
• Overcast days are no guarantee of sun-protection. The sun's rays are just as damaging and sunscreens are still a must.
• Be happy with your natural skin color. Tanning parlors can increase your risk of skin cancer.
• The higher you climb, the more intense the sun's rays become since there is less atmosphere to diffuse the damaging rays. Pile on the sunscreen.
• Sand, snow, water and, yes, even concrete will reflect the sun's rays back up to your skin. Protect yourself completely from sunburn by coating the underside of your nose, ears, chin and other less-accessible body areas.
• Take advantage of the specially formulated sunscreens just for children on the market. The more they enjoy applying it, the more likely they are to wear it and not duck and run every time you come near them with a bottle.

*The Skin Cancer Foundation publishes and distributes a free newsletter, Sun & Skin News. For a free copy, send a self-addressed and stamped business envelope to: Skin Center Foundation, P.O. Box 561, Department Sun and Skin, New York, NY 10156.

© 1999 Michael Hodgson