Summer is coming to a close, but protecting your skin from the sun needs to be a life-long habit. 1 in 5 Americans will get skin cancer during their lifetime and 1 in 33 will get melanoma. One American dies of melanoma every 65 minutes. Protecting yourself and your family prevents skin cancer and premature aging of the skin.

SUNSCREEN:

Make sure your sunscreen protects against both UV-A and UV-B rays.

Look for the American Academy of Dermatology’s “AAD Seal of Recognition”. This is new. So far they like Aveeno Continuous Protection. Consumer Reports’ top picks include Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 45 and No-Ad Sunblock Lotion SPF 45.

Apply sunscreen generously and re-apply every 2 hours or sooner if you sweat or swim.

Avoid combo products that contain insect repellant.

OTHER PROTECTION:

Seek shade, especially between 10am and 4pm.

Wear a hat, sunglasses and as much clothing as comfortable.

Use extra caution near snow, water or sand as these surfaces reflect sunlight well