Knowing how to use sun care products like sunscreen and sun block are now common knowledge. The threat of skin cancer is also another fact of life that many people acknowledge when it comes to having too much fun in the sun without protection. But there may be a few sun facts that people either aren’t aware of or don’t realize as a real threat.

Sun Fact #1: Age Matters

Did you know that the period of time from childhood to age 21 is the stage in life when the most excessive sun exposure occurs? If you spent these years of your life in the sun unprotected, even the most diligent sun care routine later on in life still puts you at greater risk for skin cancer. This is because the signs of skin cancer often do not show up for years…many times after it is too late. Too many people fail to realize that each time they skipped out on the sun block during their teens, they increased their odds for getting skin cancer.

If you know that you didn’t protect your skin as well as you should have back in the good ole days, be sure to pay close attention to your skin and note any changes, especially when it comes to the moles on your body. Talk to your doctor or dermatologist about your skin history and continue to practice proper sun care.

Sun Fact #2: Darker Skin Isn’t Immune

Dark skinned ethnicities such as Hispanics and African-Americans falsely believe they cannot get skin cancer because they aren’t as prone to sunburns and other effects of the sun. As a result, they don’t feel the need to use sunscreen. This couldn’t be further from the truth. While it is true that fair skinned individuals are more likely targets for skin cancer, dark skinned people who don’t protect their skin still put themselves at great risk.

The worst part is that because of their darker complexion, the cancer usually isn’t found until it has progressed well into the most cancerous stage. By then it is too late. So no matter what anyone tells you, if you have a darker complexion, it is a must to wear sunscreen or sun block…even if you don’t normally burn or tan. No one is immune when it comes to skin cancer, regardless of the color of your skin.

Sun Fact #3: The Sun’s Rays Are Powerful

UV rays are no joke and can creep up on you even when you think you are readily protected. For example, on overcast days, the sun’s rays can still penetrate through the clouds and cause the same amount of damage if you skin isn’t protected. Driving on sunny days allow UV rays to shoot right through your windshield and side windows, which leaves your face, hands, chest and arms as fair game. Even the wearing certain “sun appropriate” clothing isn’t completely foolproof. When dressing for the sun, wear tightly woven fabrics in dark colors. This effectively repels UV rays and keeps them from going through your clothing. Check your fabrics carefully. If you can see the sun through them that means it won’t protect you from sun exposure unless you’ve already applied sunscreen. No matter what, always wear sunscreen and keep it handy, even when you think you don’t need it.

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