Common Questions About Sun Safety:

1. Sunscreen – should I wear it? What kind?

Plan to wear and reapply sunscreen if you are not able to avoid being in the direct sun for long periods of time or during the hottest part of the day. If you’re able to wear a hat, light layers and sit in the shade, that’s even better.

However, it’s best to double check the ingredients of what you’re slathering on your skin. Many drug store brands contain endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that are implicated in hormone disruption by mimicking our own hormones.

Here is a list of ingredients to avoid:

• Oxybenzone
• Octinoxate
• Homosalate

Paraben and phthalate mineral sunscreens are a type of sunscreen that work by forming a protective barrier on your skin. Mineral sunscreens will contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as ingredients. They are the most effective at blocking the sun’s rays and do NOT have the harsh chemical side

2. What else can I do to minimize my risk of skin cancer?

Make sure you have adequate Vitamin D levels  and minimize sunburns.

Vitamin D sufficiency is linked to being protective against cancer. If you’re interested in learning how to assess if you’re getting enough Vitamin D, book an appointment with our naturopath to learn more.

Frequent severe sunburns double your risk of skin cancer. Having one or more blistering sunburns as a child or teenager increases your risk of developing skin cancer as an adult. Take cover when you feel your skin is starting to redden.

Self examinations are important to practice for early detection of skin cancer, but does not replace an examination by a trained professional. Take note of any new growths or moles and seek help if you notice any of the following:

• A persistent sore that takes more than 2 weeks to heal
• A mole that is multi-coloured, appears pearly or translucent
• Changes in size, texture or thickness of an existing mole or brown spot
• A mole that is: asymmetrical, has an irregular border, or is larger than 6mm

Our skin is the largest organ in our body and is a huge contributor to our health! Maintaining skin health is so important to keep protected while you enjoy the Summer!

Please note this content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or healthcare professional nor is it meant to diagnose a health problem or treat symptoms of disease. Always speak with your physician or healthcare professional before taking any medication, supplement or beginning any treatment for a health problem. Do not delay seeking medical advice because of something you have read in this email.