I’m going to start this post trying to clear up one of the biggest skin care misconceptions out there. As Latinas, we range in all different skin colors and skin tones-from fair to dark. And regardless of your skin color we are all susceptible to skin cancer. Yes, each and every one of us. Did you know that melanoma among Latinos has increased at an annual rate of 2.9% in the past 15 years?
As you ladies know, I’ve been working with Neutrogena for a while now and one of the the things I admire about them is their mission to educate us on the importance of a healthy lifestyle-especially in the skin care department. And with summer right around the corner, this is something thats very important to me.
If you decide to expose your skin to UVA and UVB rays without protection by going to tanning salons, sun bathing and not using sunscreen when out for long periods of time, you’re putting yourself at risk for skin cancer. According to Neutrogena, people who tan indoors, just four times a year increase their risk of developing melanoma by 11 percent.
From Latina to Latina, I’m asking you too please take your health seriously and follow these easy steps, courtesy of Neutrogena, to protect your skin this summer. You can also check out and find Choose Skin Health info and screening locations here.
Avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun
- Try to avoid peak sun hours if possible, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
- Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths.
- Seek shade when possible, such as from sun shades, awnings, canopies, or umbrellas.
Always wear a sunscreen
- Dermatologists recommend a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Ensure proper application of sunscreen. Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside.
- Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
- Look for water-resistant and sweat-resistant sunscreens if you know you will be engaging in extended outdoor activity
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes
Cover up
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV protective clothing (UPF measures the UV protection offered by clothing).
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes
Early Detection
- When detected early, skin cancer has a 98% survival rate*. Learn about how you can spot the warning signs of skin cancer.
* Source: American Society for Dermatologic Surgery
Visit Choose Skin Health FB today and get a free screening today!
Join @LBConnect, @chicanol, @Mcontemporanea, @MamaXXI, @VivaFashion, and I for a fun #ChooseSkinHealth Twitter party on Wednesday, June 13th at 6-7:30 p.m. PST! RSVP here on Facebook and/or on Twtvite here. Details below!
ARE THERE ANY SKIN HEALTH TIPS YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE WITH US?
Disclosure: This post is part of a paid Neutrogena campaign via Latina Bloggers Connect. All opinions are 100% my own.
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I’ve been slathering on SPF since I was a teenager; I’d bathe in the stuff if I could. It’s such a magical elixir! It prevents sun burns & skin cancer, makes me smell like the beach, and it keeps me lookin’ youthful.
Monica recently posted..מחשוב ענן 2
I always keep sunscreens with SPF 30. It is my way of protection from the intense heat. Whether I am in the field of work or on vacation or doing outdoor activity with my family, I always have this in hand.
I noticed the climate these days are giving pain. If the sun comes, it is too hot. Unlike way back on younger years of my life, it is mostly tolerable. Now, almost bearable.
Linda recently posted..Signs Of Cancerous Moles
The points on protecting the skin during summer are very helpful.
Jessica recently posted..African Mango Wonder – Australia & New Zealand