Summer in Colorado means more time outside – and with that comes the need for summer sun protection. 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. At Colorado’s higher elevation, UV rays are stronger, making even short periods outdoors more impactful than many people expect.
Daily sun protection is one of the most effective ways to reduce cumulative UV damage, which is a major risk factor for skin cancer.
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.
Research highlighted by the Skin Cancer Foundation shows that regular daily use of SPF 15 sunscreen can reduce the risk of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by about 40% and melanoma by approximately 50% when used as directed.
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. Early detection improves treatment outcomes and can reduce the need for more extensive procedures.
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.
Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to reflect UV rays, while chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation before it can damage the skin. Both can be effective when used as directed.
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.
Because UV exposure accumulates over a lifetime, making sun protection part of your daily routine can help protect your skin long after summer ends.
Whether you’re looking for dermatologist-recommended sunscreen or 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.
