The Sun and Skin Cancer - Why Sunscreen is Important!

Most people are well aware that it is advised that sunscreen be worn on a daily basis, or whenever you are outdoors even for a brief period of time. Yet, it seems that while many people are aware of the benefits of sunscreen, it is not a part of their daily routine.

Most people only consider wearing sunscreen when they are planning a day out in the sun or are partaking in an outdoor activity.Most people hear warnings every day to keep out of the sun when it is strongest, and to prevent damage to our skin from the sun's rays.

Generally, people, especially younger adults, tend to pay little attention to this advice about the sun and skin cancer.

Use a sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays that is SPF of 30 or greater is recommended.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 55 is a new, dermatologist tested sun protection formulation containing Helioplex technology. Helioplex delivers amazing UVA protection, preventing damaging UVA rays from penetrating deep under your skin's surface. Neutrogena's Dry-Touch technology absorbs excess sunscreen oils, leaving your skin clean and non-shiny. Serious sun protection never felt this light. $10.00

MD Formulations Sun Protector 30 Spray

Very water-resistant and sweat-resistant formula delivers broad-spectrum protection from UVB and UVA rays. Also contains vitamins C, E and A for antioxidant benefits, soothing aloe vera and natural eco-friendly essential oils to help repel insects. Convenient, non-greasy formula can be misted on hard to reach areas and dries quickly without a heavy or sticky feel. Ideal for those who do not like creams and lotions but want high-level sun protection. Perfect for active outdoor use.$24.00

Murad Waterproof Sunblock SPF 30

Murad Waterproof Sunblock SPF 30 provides maximum full spectrum face and body protection for active lifestyles by resisting water for long lasting defense as well as shielding against premature fine lines and wrinkle formation. $31.00

So here is the science part of skin cancer and the sun.

It isn't heat from the sun that burns your skin. It is the exposure to the sun's ultraviolet radiation. It is your body's own chemical reactions that determine your clinical symptoms. Meaning, whether you turn red, blister or even if you peel. After all, every "body" is different.

The energy from ultraviolet radiation can damage molecules in the skin, specifically your DNA. Therefore, DNA damage also can result in the destruction of the involved skin cell. This is one of the reasons why skin peels after a bad sunburn.

If the frequency of sunlight exposure increases, the probability that some of the damage will escape repair. This mutated DNA may eventually lead to skin cancer.

So, you stayed in the sun too long and now you have a sunburn! It wasn't enough that you were just reading about the sun and skin cancer. Don't panic...

Here is what you need to do:

1. Take an ibuprofen. This will ease the pain and relieve the inflammation.

2. Get into a cool place. Getting into a cooler place takes the heat out of your skin, which is after all, the ultimate goal.

3. Use a product, such as, Solarcane, or 100% Aloe Vera (or an Aloe vera plant), even hydrocortizone to smooth on your sunburn. This will numb and alleviate some of the pain from the sunburn.

4. Take an oatmeal and honey bath in luke warm water. A cooler bath will put the water back in the skin that the sun took out earlier when you got the sunburn.

5. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Did I mention, moisturize? In the days after your sunburn, take cooler showers and apply moisturizer to your skin, liberally. And if at all possible, stay out of the sun.

Ole Henriksen All Purpose Aloe Vera Gel

Ole Henriksen All Purpose Aloe Vera Gel is a cooling oil-free gel that helps sooth skin irritations with chamomile. A refreshingly, light as a feather gel for skin that "acts up" caused by a rash, cut or sunburn. Completely oil-free & perfect for sunburned, oily or acneic skin. $30.00

Cellex-C Sun Rescue Gel

Sun Rescue Gel is a specialized, lemon colored, oil-free gel containing the perfect complement of the patented Cellex-C signature ingredients required to reduce the visibly aging effects caused by excessive sun exposure. This formulation has been designed with ascorbic acid at a level of 17.5% and buffered to a pH level of 3.3 to accommodate the increased sensitivity of sun-exposed skin. Application within 4 hours of exposure will help reduce the effects of sun-burn, including redness and peeling as well as counteract some of the damaging consequences of solar-radiation. $61.00

The "RAYS: Your Grade" survey polled adults in 32 U.S. metropolitan regions spanning 29 states on their knowledge, attitudes and behaviors toward tanning and sun protection. So, these are the top 5 cities that really know some stuff about the sun and skin cancer.

1.Washington, DC

2. New York City

3. Miami

4. Tampa

5. Los Angeles