Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., with millions of cases diagnosed each year. It’s also one of the most highly treatable when found early and one of the most preventable cancers.
Protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays is the best way to lower the risk of developing skin cancer. But misinformation on how people can do this effectively is rampant.
To create a list of common sun protection myths, 24/7 Tempo consulted board certified dermatologists with more than 20 years of combined experience and reviewed information from organizations dedicated to skin health such as the American Academy of Dermatology Association and the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Exposure to UV rays can also contribute to accelerated signs of aging. Changes to the skin due to chronic exposure to ultraviolet rays, a process called photoaging, is responsible for about 90% of premature aging. Sun exposure is also a leading risk factor for developing skin cancer — about 90% are caused by UV radiation.
With coronavirus-related restrictions loosening in the country, summer is once again a time to go on vacation, enjoy the outdoors, and have fun at open air concerts — taking care of protecting oneself from the sun and taking a few other health precautions, of course. These are the 27 biggest health mistakes people make in the summer.
Click here to see 18 myths about sunscreen and sun protection
