1. Wear sunscreen daily. It is your best protection against premature ageing and skin cancer. Apply it correctly, covering all sun exposed areas of the body. For best protection use a broad spectrum, water- resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Remember that no sunscreen can block 100% of the sun’s UV rays, so it is important to also protect the skin by using UV protective clothing, hats, sunglasses and by seeking shade.
2. Stay out of tanning beds. Tanning beds, just like the sun, emit harmful UV radiation that causes skin cancer. In fact, according to the American Association of Dermatology (AAD), even one solarium session can increase your risk of developing melanoma by 20%, squamous cell carcinoma by 67% and basal cell carcinoma by 29Y 29%. If you want that sun kissed glow opt for self- tanners instead. When applied correctly, self- tanners appear natural and won’t give you orange skin, streaks or blotches.
3. Skin care routine. Less is more. All you need is a gentle cleanser, sunscreen and moisturizer. Establish morning and evening skin care routines and never skip them.
4. Identify your skin type and use skin products formulated for your own skin type.
5. Don’t forget your lips. Use a lipbalm or lipstick that contains sunscreen with the SPF of 30 or higher as skin cancer may also develop on the lips.
6. Keep your hands off your face. Whenever you touch your face, you transfer dirt, germs, oil and possible irritants from your hands to your face. Do not pick or pop pimples as this can lead to scarring. In case you have oily, acne prone skin, it is a good idea to keep you hear of your face and back.
7. Check your skin regularly and visit a dermatologist at least once a year.