Skin Cancer and National Don’t Fry Day

Wellness is about what you eat, but also how you protect your skin. Today is the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention’s DON’T FRY DAY. This day, the Friday before Memorial Day has been put aside by the organization to talk about the benefits of protecting your skin.

According to the council’s website, Most skin cancers are caused by overexposure to UV radiation. Individuals with lighter-toned skin are more susceptible to UV damage, although people of all races and ethnicities can be at risk for skin cancer. Those who have a family history of skin cancer, plenty of moles or freckles, or a history of severe sunburns early in life are at a higher risk of skin cancer as well. No single step can fully protect you and your family from overexposure to UV radiation, follow as many of the following tips as possible:

• Do Not Burn or Tan
• Seek Shade
• Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
• Generously Apply Sunscreen
• Use Extra Caution Near Water, Snow, and Sand
• Get Vitamin D Safely

Davey Trees has an excellent infographic (below) suggesting that trees are “nature’s sunscreen” and an excellent chemical-free way to protect your skin from overexposure to UV radiation. They give some tips on how to keep the trees on your property healthy and happy. Skin cancer numbers are growing in the world and every effort you can take to prevent over-exposure to UV radiation is a step towards better health; hang out in the shade for Memorial Day and give your skin a break.