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Ultraviolet radiation damage is cumulative. A lifetime of consistent skin-protection practices is the most important weapon in the battle to reduce skin cancer rates.

Yet, roughly half of adults don't use sunscreen, and teens and adults alike still use tanning booths despite the known damaging effects.

One way to be sure that you are getting enough protection is to use a sunscreen with a sun-protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher, and apply twice as much as you normally would rub into your skin. Sunscreen should offer UV-A and UV-B protection. Re-apply sunscreen liberally every two hours and after swimming or perspiring.

Follow these other tips to protect your skin.

• Avoid direct sunlight exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If your shadow is shorter than you are, find shade.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat.
• Wear UV-blocking sunglasses and sun-protective clothing when you are in the sunshine for prolonged periods.
• Avoid tanning salons.

Sources: Skin Cancer Foundation. Prevention tips. Accessed May 7, 2008. American Cancer Society. Skin cancer prevention and early detection. Accessed May 7, 2008.

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