With the summer months finally here, protecting your skin is that much more vital. While many people associate sunscreen with the beach, it's crucial to wear it every day to safeguard against UVA and UVB rays. In addition to getting yearly skin cancer screenings to check your health, the team at Main Street Radiology in Bayside, NY, shares the following tips for sunscreen application.

How to Properly Choose & Wear Sunscreen

1. Opt for Broad Spectrum

When deciding on the sunscreen to purchase, select one that has broad-spectrum protection. Those products protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays cause your skin to burn, while UVA ones lead to signs of aging, such as wrinkles. 

2. Go for a Higher SPF

Choose a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher for optimal protection. This ensures that it's strong enough to prevent damage, such as skin cancer or aging. In fact, the FDA requires any sunscreen with an SPF below 15 to carry a warning that it only protects against sunburns, not skin cancer or skin aging.

3. Reapply Regularly

Even water-resistant sunscreens must be reapplied. Do so at least every two hours; however, those who swim or sweat a lot should add the lotion more frequently, as the water can wear it down.

4. Know Your Risks

Those who are fair or older are more prone to skin cancer and burning. If you're at higher risk, regularly apply more sunscreen, using a higher SPF, or stay out of the sun during peak hours. 

5. Wear It Daily

You should apply sunscreen every day, especially in the hot months. Even if it’s cloudy or you don't think you'll be out in the sun long, apply the lotion to all uncovered areas before heading out. 

Follow these steps to protect your skin. If you notice any problematic spots, get a skin cancer screening at Main Street Radiology. They have been offering comprehensive cancer screenings and biopsies for nearly 50 years. Their radiology center is accredited by the American College of Radiology, and they boast 32 board-certified radiologists on staff. To learn more about their procedures and how their team can help, visit them online. Call (718) 428-1500 to schedule a skin cancer screening today.