Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light is a primary cause of skin cancer, and daily use of broad spectrum sunscreen is one of the best defenses against ultraviolet light. So, does sunscreen prevent skin cancer? Although there are no 100% guarantees, virtually all experts agree that the daily use of sunscreen significantly lowers one’s risk of skin cancer. More specifically: studies suggest that people who use sunscreen reduce their risk of skin cancer by around 40%.
Preventing Skin Cancer with Sunscreen
Everyone should wear sunscreen on a daily basis, and that goes double for those who are at a higher risk of developing common forms of skin cancer. If you want to be sure that you’re doing your utmost to prevent skin cancer, make sure to choose the right type of sunscreen and follow these best practices:
- Use a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB light rays.
- Use a sunscreen that offers SPF 30 protection or higher.
- Although a higher-SPF sunscreen might provide some protection for longer, your sunscreen is only guaranteed to work for two hours. So, you should reapply sunscreen several times throughout the day.
How to Prevent Skin Cancer After a Bad Sunburn
Although some may wonder how to prevent skin cancer after a bad sunburn, the truth is that the damage is done by the time skin starts to tan or blister. In fact, skin cancer statistics show that those who have had five or more bad sunburns are more than twice as likely to develop melanoma. That’s exactly why it’s so important to use sunscreen before you spend time outdoors.
It’s important to note that sunburns are caused by UVB rays, but UVA rays—found in the sun’s light, and also in tanning beds—can be dangerous, too. You should always choose a type of sunscreen that offers broad spectrum protection.
Learn More with GentleCure
Whether you’re interested in learning more about preventing skin cancer or treating common forms of the disease, you can always reach out to one of our skin cancer information specialists at your convenience.
