Dermatology in Chicago by Dr. Memar, Dermatologist

May 3, 2006 - More than 1-million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year. Dr. Omeed Memar of the Academic Dermatology & Skin Cancer institute shares some tips and advice on how to minimize the risk of sun damage.

SUNSCREEN TIPS:

Use sunscreen whenever outdoors

Consider wearing protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, where possible.

Hydrate when you are out in the sun

Seek shade when appropriate, remember that the sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Use extra caution near water, snow and sand as they reflect the damaging rays of the sun which can increase your chance of sunburn.

Protect children from sun exposure by applying sunscreen frequently. It's very important to re-apply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. (To give you a visual reference, Dr. Memar says that the average person requires one ounce of sunscreen, enough to fill a shot glass, to adequately cover the exposed areas of the body. He also emphasized that sunscreen should be applied at least 15-30 minutes before going outdoors in order to allow it to be completely absorbed into the skin.)

Avoiding tanning beds. Consider using a sunless self-tanning product to get a healthy glow, but continue to use sunscreen with it.

If you do get a sun burn, Dr. Memar advises you to (a) Cool down your skin with a cool shower or compress; (b) if not allergic, take one 325mg aspirin tablet; (c) apply a thin coating of 1% hydrocortisone to the affected area; and, (d) in severe cases of sun burb, see your doctor or medical clinic.

RECOMMENDED SUNSCREENS:

Bull Frog Superblock

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Sunblock

Clinique UV Response Face

Elta Gold UV

UV CLOTHES:

Women's skirt (50 UPF), shirt (40 UPF), and hat (50 UPF).

Men's long sleeve sun shirt (50 UPF) and cruiser hat

National Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month

Copyright © 2004 Academic Dermatology & Skin Cancer Institute of Chicago