Dermatologist says Americans should monitor their sun exposure and avoid tanning beds –

Summer has arrived with Memorial Day weekend, when pools, beaches, and other sunny events reopen across the country.

However, more sun means a risk of developing conditions like skin cancer and other sun-related injuries, and a dermatologist warns that people with certain genetic traits may want to take extra care this summer.

Dr. University of Pittsburgh dermatologist Laura Ferris told DailyMail.com that people with red hair, blue eyes or freckles should be especially careful this summer because they are at higher risk of developing melanoma or suffering from skin aging.

He also warns that there is little association between visible sunburn and the development of skin cancer, and that even if a person does not have an immediate problem, they can still be exposed to too much sun, which can hurt them later in life.

However, all people should take some precautions to protect their skin from the possible harmful effects of UV rays.

Ferris explains that the most important thing to do this summer is to control the amount of ultraviolet radiation a person is exposed to, regardless of how long they’ve been outside.

“I don’t see this as a maximum time” [you spend in the sun]more to see how much ultraviolet radiation you get,” Ferris explained.

There are a few simple tips a person can use to maximize their time outdoors while avoiding exposure to dangerous levels of radiation.

The first of these is the use of sunscreen. Ferris says that if a person expects to be exposed to the sun for more than 15 minutes, they should use the lotion as a barrier.

Dr. Laura Ferris says people need to make sure they limit their UV radiation to protect against the development of sunburn and melanoma.

Sunscreen should also be reapplied every 90 minutes to provide protection or if a person gets into a place where they can go into water.

Which sunscreen you choose can also be an important factor. Ferris recommends that Americans use “broad spectrum” or “water resistant” products as they last longer and offer a greater range of protection.

Also, if someone is planning to tan outside or engage in some other activity that involves prolonged sun exposure, this bar recommends an SPF of at least 30 to 50, even higher.

A report by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) published earlier this month revealed that many sunscreens do not adequately protect users from harmful radiation that can cause melanoma or other skin conditions such as photoaging.

Ferris explains that photoaging is the process by which collagen fibers in the skin — which is how they can make a person look “young” and “chubby.”

When a person’s collagen deteriorates, their skin begins to sag, causing wrinkles and spoiling a youthful appearance.

Washington DC-based EWG recommends using creams that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient to protect against photoaging.

People should also make sure they find a shaded place to sit if they are not engaged in activities that require being in the sun. If there is no shade, they must carry an umbrella.

People should avoid tanning beds as they are exposed to unnecessary UV rays and instead should tan naturally.

Observe that pale people and others who exhibit traits that cause them to have less melanin, such as red hair or blue eyes, need to take special care to make sure they are exposed to the sun and follow the recommendations.

Even bald men are often underestimated, Ferris says. Many do not apply sunscreen on their heads, but melanoma and other skin conditions can still occur on the scalp.

Melanoma on the scalp can also be difficult to treat, as there is less room for the doctor to make an incision to cut through a malignant lesion.

According to Ferris, if someone spends too much time in the sun and eventually gets sunburned, there’s not much to worry about.

Explain that while it may be painful, there is no link between getting burned and getting cancer later in life.

sunburn [occurs] when ultraviolet light becomes concentrated and kills some skin cells. [When] The death of skin cells is ensured, and the inflammatory process comes into play.

However, the development of melanoma and other skin cancers is a result of persistent UV exposure, so even if a person burns here and there, they will still be fine if they take regular precautions.

This means that one has to stay alert at all times because a little exposure to the same body part from time to time can turn into a bigger problem.

Ferris also strongly recommends using tanning beds that irradiate the body with UV rays and says people should opt for a natural color if possible.