5 Ways to Prevent Skin Cancer

Always Wear Sunscreen

One of the biggest defenses against the sun's harmful rays is wearing sunscreen every day. Choose a sunscreen with at least an SPF 15 and one that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. This is also true when looking for eye creams and lip balms.

1 / 5

Keep It Covered

Image Source: Shutterstock

Another defense against the sun is to keep yourself covered. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, and sunglasses to protect the delicate skin around your eyes. Also, the more clothing you wear, the better protected you are. If you're at the beach, consider wearing a cover-up while lying out, and look for clothes that are made with sun-protecting fabrics.

2 / 5

Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself

Image Source: Shutterstock

Because the cells of some moles can turn into skin cancer, make it a habit to look for suspicious-looking moles on your body. If you're not sure what to look for, follow the A,B,C,D,E rule — it tests for color, size, and appearance. Make an appointment with a dermatologist immediately if you find anything that seems off.

3 / 5

Forget What Jersey Shore Taught You

Image Source: Shutterstock

Baking in a tanning bed is a serious no-no, right up there with arsenic and mustard gas. The UV radiation can lead to skin cancer, and people who start using sunbeds before age 35 increase their risk of skin cancer by 75 percent. If you want a sun-kissed glow, opt for a spray tan instead.

4 / 5

Stay Shady

Image Source: Shutterstock

Another way to protect yourself from the sun's rays is to keep yourself in shaded areas, like under a tree or umbrella. Since the sun's rays are most damaging between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., limit your exposure during this time period.

5 / 5