There are a number of ways that you can protect your skin to prevent skin cancer.
Wear UPF50+ sun protective clothing that covers large areas of the skin.
Wear a UPF50+ sun hat with which blocks all the sunlight
Wear sunglasses with a UV index of 3 to protect your eyes, the polarized ones tend to be more comfortable especially when on the water or fishing
Seek protection in the shade when possible
Use a broad spectrum sunscreen that provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays when the UV index hits 3 or above.
Do not sunburn
Do not use solariums
Remember it’s the UV radiation index that burns you, not the temperature!
We all know the saying prevention is the best medicine, well in the prevention of skin cancer this is absolutely true!
Check your own skin every month. It takes 10 minutes and saves lives.
Ask a family member or a friend or use a mirror for the areas which are hard to see (such as the back of the neck).
Use a hairdryer on low heat to inspect your scalp.
Keep a journal of your spots and moles.
Report any spots or moles which are changing to your local GP or dermatologist.
Remember that skin cancers, especially melanomas can occur on non sun-exposed sites such as the groin and feet. As a side note... did you know Bob Marley died of malignant melanoma under the nail of one of his toes?
Remember to check all areas of the body, including between your toes, fingers and nails.
"I would tell my 16-year-old-self that getting a tan from the sun is so not worth it. A spray tan or self tanner is a way better option that burning your skin and the risk of getting skin cancer."
"In Feb 2021 I decided I should get it (the spot) checked and I wish I’d gone sooner so it could have been picked up quicker meaning I wouldn’t have had to have as big of surgery to have it removed."
Australian swimmer and Olympic gold medallist Michael Klim talks about looking after his skin during his swimming career and shares his tips on sun protection.
