Sun’s Out, SPF Is In
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Here in Arizona, where the sun shines almost every day, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep yourself healthy over time. With simple habits and a bit of planning, skin cancer is very preventable.
The sun emits two types of ultraviolet rays that affect your skin: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging and long-term cellular damage, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburns. Both types increase your risk of developing skin cancer. What makes UV exposure particularly easy to overlook is that damage accumulates quietly over time. You do not need a visible burn for harm to occur, and even on overcast days, up to 80% of UV rays still reach your skin. At Arizona Blood and Cancer Specialists, we encourage patients and community members to view sun protection not as an occasional habit but as a daily commitment to their health.
Sunscreen is your first and most accessible line of defense. When selecting one, look for a broad-spectrum formula with at least SPF 30. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays before they can damage skin cells and tend to blend seamlessly into the skin, making them a popular and convenient choice for everyday wear. Mineral sunscreens, which contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, create a physical barrier that reflects UV rays away from the skin's surface. These are often a better fit for individuals with sensitive skin and are recommended by our team at Arizona Blood and Cancer Specialists for patients managing treatment-related skin sensitivity.
Picking the right sunscreen is just one part of staying protected. Using it properly and regularly is just as important. Apply sunscreen every morning as part of your routine and reapply it every two hours when you’re outside, especially after swimming or sweating. Wearing protective clothes, wide-brimmed hats, and staying in the shade during the sun’s strongest hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., gives your skin the best protection. In Arizona, where the sun is especially strong, these habits are worth making part of your daily life.
If you’re going through a cancer diagnosis or treatment, taking care of your skin becomes even more important. Some chemotherapy and radiation treatments can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of burns and irritation. Our team works closely with patients to offer personalized advice on protecting their skin at every stage, so you can focus on healing with confidence.
At Arizona Blood and Cancer Specialists, we’re here to support your health every step of the way. If you have questions about preventing skin cancer or managing your skin during treatment, please reach out and schedule a consultation with us today.