Skin care is important part of summer safety

  • Published
  • By Air Force Staff Sgt. Sheila deVera
  • JBER Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  Summer is upon us and that means many service members and families are planning outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, fishing or catching some sun. Though these activities are exciting, it is also important to protect yourself against ultraviolet radiation.

"With many days so far in the upper 60s, [and] some well exceeding 70s, we are definitely having a warmer-than-usual summer," said Air Force Staff Sgt. Timothy Wallace, 3rd Operations Support Squadron weather forecaster.  "So far this summer, we have hit 82 degrees two days in a row, so we should see a few more hot days in the next few weeks."

The temperature changes drastically throughout the year as the amount of daylight fluctuates - especially in some areas where 24 consecutive hours of daylight is present.

Although July is the hottest month in Alaska, it's important to remember that sunburns occur due to UV rays, independent of heat, Wallace added.

"The hottest time of the day is going to be after the sun has reached its peak, but before it begins to set, which could block some of its rays," Wallace said. "Even with cloudy skies, it is very possible to get burned. The longer days increase the amount of UV exposure, so even if it cools off for a week, applying sunscreen or wearing sun protection is critical."

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 1 million Americans are diagnosed each year with skin cancer, the most common form of cancer. In 2015, an estimated 73,870 of these will be invasive melanomas, with about 42,670 in males and 31,200 in women. 

Skin cancer affects people of all colors and races, although those with light skin which sunburns easily have a higher risk. It is estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their life. But when caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable.

Moles are usually harmless, but not always, so it is important to know your skin very well and recognize any changes on your body.

If the moles are asymmetrical - one spot does not match the other; if they are uneven, scalloped or notched, or have borders, irregular patterns of colors, a size larger than a pencil eraser, or evolve over time in size, shape, color, or elevation, these can be early signs of melanoma.

"If they notice a mole that stands out or looks different, especially if it's changing over time, then it should be looked at," said Air Force Lt. Col. Michael Michener, 673d Medical Operations Squadron chief of dermatology.

Skin cancer often develops on areas of the skin exposed to the sun's rays.

"If you are going to be outdoors for a long period of time, you will have significant sun exposure," said Michener.

Sunscreen is not recommended for children less than six months old, so try to avoid having them in direct sunlight as much as possible. The hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. have the highest concentration of UV rays, so protect your skin from the sun as possible, hats that shade your face, ears and neck especially during that time, as well as long sleeves and pants to help protect against insects and changing weather.

Ideally, look for sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher, with broad spectrum and water resistance. Apply generous amounts to exposed areas and reapply every two to three hours. Sunscreen with broad spectrum can help protect you from UV-A and UV-B light which can cause skin cancer.

If you think you may have a suspicious 'mole,' make an appointment with your provider or by calling the medical appointment line at 580-2778.

For information on skin cancer, visit www.cancer.org