Dr. Jane Yoo, a board-certified dermatologist, walks through sun protection basics: wear SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours, seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM, and don't skip commonly missed spots like ears, toes, and the tops of your feet. Avoid tanning beds entirely.
I'm Dr. Jane Yoo, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Think you're safe from the sun? Well, think again. Sun protection is something everyone needs every day, whether it's sunny or cloudy. Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime? Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma. The deadliest form. But the good news, protecting your skin is simple. First, when you're outside, make it a habit to seek shade, especially during peak sun hours between 10 AM to 4 PM. Wear protective clothing like a wide-brim hat, long sleeves, and sunglasses. Don't forget to apply broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin. Be sure to cover often overlooked areas like the toes, tops of your feet, neck, ears, and scalp, especially if you have thinning hair. A lot of people forget the lips, but skin cancer can develop there too. Use lip balm or lipstick with SPF 30 or higher. And don't forget, sunscreen isn't one and done. You need to reapply every 2 hours or right after swimming or sweating to stay protected. When you're near water, snow, or sand, be extra careful. These surfaces reflect the sun's rays, increasing your exposure. So double down on your sun protection in those settings. Here's another pro tip: always check the sunscreen's expiration date. Sunscreens usually last about 3 years, but if it's changed in color or consistency, it's time to replace it. To stay on top of things, you can write the purchase date on the bottom of the bottle. Looking for that sun-kissed glow? Well, skip the tanning beds. Not only do they increase your risk of skin cancer, but they also lead to premature skin aging. Instead, try a self-tanning product.
