Soak up the Sun

What You Need to Do to Stay Safe in the Summer Sun

We all love getting out and enjoying the sun during the summer. From being outdoors enjoying a barbeque to going for a daily swim, you’re exposing yourself to more sunlight. While you’ve probably heard all about the need for sunscreen, you may not think about protecting your head.

Who Scalp Skin Cancer Affects

Unfortunately skin cancer affects everyone. During the summer, there is an increased awareness about skin cancer, but most people only think to keep an eye on their arms, hands, legs, and feet. However, skin cancer can affect any part of your body, including your:

• Scalp
• Head
• Neck
• Ears
• Back

All of these areas can be affected and often go unnoticed because they can be hard to see parts of your body. This is especially true on the scalp and backs of the ears.

For both men and women the scalp is a particular area of concern. You’ll want to pay special attention where you part your hair or where your hair may be thinning.

How to Protect Yourself

As with protecting the rest of your body from the sun, there are several precautionary measures, for both men and women, that you can do to help reduce your risks.

• Apply Sunscreen: You use it for the rest of your body and your head is no exception. Be sure to apply it to your part and thinning areas. Be sure you don’t forget about the back of your ears and neck, too.
• Wear a Hat: This may not sound stylish, but the right kind of hat can protect your head and neck. For guys any old baseball cap will do, but ladies you have endless options for beauty and protection.
• Know Your Body: Oftentimes growths on the scalp may only be noticed by hair stylists during an appointment. Know your body and be sure you check your head, neck, ears, and back for any unusual bumps, growths, or discoloration.

With today’s medicine, cancer can be treated if detected early. By protecting your skin this summer, and by knowing your body, you have a better chance of bettering your overall health.

There’s nothing better than getting out and soaking up every minute of the summer sun. While we don’t like to think about the negative side of summer, if we’re all careful, and use sunscreen, we can really enjoy all of this great sunshine!