1)  The first step is to limit direct sun exposure. Do not stay in the sun with unprotected skin. Stay in shaded areas if possible and wear a broad-brimmed hat and clothing that covers the skin. Avoid being out during the prime times when the sun is very intense such as between 11am and 2pm.

2)  Wear your sun-screen. It is recommended to use an SPF of 30 and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating. Higher SPF protection can be used but many people will be sensitive to it due to the higher concentration of chemicals. It still needs to be reapplied every two hours so beware of having a false sense of security with a higher SPF. Protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays is also crucial. A physical block such as zinc oxide is an added layer of protection.

3)  Accept that there is no such thing as a healthy tan. Any change in skin colour is a sign of sun damage. There are good self-tanning lotions that can give you a bronze colour without the harmful sun rays. Tanning beds are also not recommended. Tanning is a sure way to prematurely age your skin. You may think freckles are cute but they don't look that cute when they inevitably get larger and merge together and turn into liver or age spots. Think ahead and prevent sun-damage.

4) Realize if you are at higher risk of skin cancer. If you have very fair skin and burn easily, you are a target for the sun. Also, if you have had a previous skin cancer or have a family member with skin cancer, you are at greater risk. You will need to be extra careful and strict with your sun precautions. If you have any moles or sun spots that are changing or are new, you need to be checked for potential early skin cancers. Any moles that are abnormal in appearance, irregular in shape, border, or colour, should be checked as well. Also, beware of non-healing or bleeding lesions, especially in sun-exposed areas.

5) Our children are precious. Please protect children against the harmful rays of the sun. Apply strict sun precaution with children, especially if they are under one year of age. Many skin cancers are caused by sun burns in early childhood.

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