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Although skin cancer usually happens to Caucasians, those who work outside, smokers and people with a family history of skin cancer, everybody is at risk these days as the statistics demonstrate. Cases of skin cancer have doubled every 10 years over the last 40 years and we need to take action to keep it from happening to us. There are two types of skin cancer that are very lethal if left too late. Therefore, it is crucial to follow these skin cancer prevention tips. The following information is sourced in part from the world's largest healthcare organization, NHS Direct Online. Taking care in the sun is the best way to protect your skin from developing cancer. First and foremost, do not allow your skin to burn. The damage is done as soon as the skin becomes burned, so cover up with sunscreen and loose fitting clothing. Your arms and legs should be covered whenever possible. This will help to protect you from skin cancer and from heat stroke as well. It's also important to drink plenty of water to replace the natural fluids that are lost on hot days. The best clothes for sun protection are those made of fabrics that are tightly woven. Also, try to avoid being out in the sun during the hottest hours of the day, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you must be outdoors during these hours, cover up with clothes, use plenty of sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses. You should always use a sun protection lotion with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15. Children, people who live in constant exposure to the hot sun and fair-skinned people should choose a lotion with an SPF of up to 40. Before you venture out into the sun, make sure that your entire body is covered by sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. At the absolute minimum, make sure that your face, hands, feet and neck are covered. Remember that the most vulnerable parts of your body are the spots that are not usually exposed to sunlight, so keep those protected as well. You also should apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going out in the sun and then apply it every couple of hours, as sweat and friction against towels for example will cause it to wear off. Also reapply right after swimming, even if your lotion says it is of a waterproof variety. Don't believe those who tell you that the water will protect you from sunburn. Always use waterproof sun protection when you are out swimming. UVA and UVB rays will penetrate through two feet of water. Similarly, clouds and fog do not prevent ultraviolet rays from reaching and damaging your skin. The ozone layer is meant to protect us, but we've damaged it to the point that we now need to protect ourselves. Even on cloudy days, it's important to cover up with SPF 15, put on a hat and wear sunglasses that have UVA and UVB filters. The sun's rays can damage the retinas of the eyes and ultimately create cataracts, so it's important to protect yourself today to avoid future disease and discomfort.
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