Summer in Colorado means more time outside. Whether you’re hiking, golfing, coaching your kids’ games, relaxing by the pool, or spending weekends at the lake, your skin is exposed to more ultraviolet (UV) radiation than you may realize.
While enjoying the sunshine is part of what makes summer special, protecting your skin should be just as much a part of your routine. Taking a few simple precautions today can significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer in the future.
Your Best Defense Starts Before You Burn
Many people think sunscreen is only necessary on during long days at the ballpark or while working in the yard. In reality, UV rays can damage your skin anytime you’re outdoors, even on cloudy days. Colorado’s higher elevation also means stronger UV exposure, making daily sun protection especially important.
To help protect your skin this summer:
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
- Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing whenever possible.
- Seek shade during peak sunlight hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Avoid tanning beds, which can significantly increase your risk of skin cancer.
Don’t Forget Your Annual Skin Check
Even with great sun protection habits, regular skin cancer screenings remain one of the best ways to detect skin cancer early.
Keep an eye out for new or changing moles, spots that won’t heal, or lesions that bleed, itch, or continue to grow. If you notice any changes, don’t wait to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.
Routine Total Body Skin Exams can help identify skin cancer before symptoms become more serious, often leading to simpler and more successful treatment options.
Not All Sunscreens Are Created Equal
Finding a sunscreen you actually enjoy wearing makes it much easier to use every day.
At Vanguard Skin Specialists, our dermatology team offers physician-recommended sunscreens designed for a variety of skin types, including sensitive, acne-prone, and active lifestyles. Whether you prefer mineral sunscreen, tinted SPF, lightweight daily protection, or water-resistant formulas for outdoor activities, there are options available to fit your needs.
If you’re unsure which sunscreen is right for you, ask your dermatologist during your next visit. They can recommend products based on your skin type, lifestyle, and personal skin cancer risk.
Make Skin Protection Part of Your Summer Routine
Protecting your skin doesn’t mean staying indoors. It means making smart choices so you can continue enjoying everything summer has to offer while reducing your long-term risk of skin cancer.
Whether you’re looking for answers about skin cancer prevention, interested in scheduling a skin exam, or searching for dermatologist-recommended sunscreens that fit your lifestyle, Vanguard Skin Specialists is here to help you protect your skin all year long.
