Do you need suncream in autumn? Dr Peter Kim Skin Cancer Blog
As the weather gets cooler and the days grow shorter, it’s easy to think that you don’t need sunscreen anymore. After all, you’re just taking the dog for a walk, running a few errands or going to work. You’re just outside for a few minutes. And you’re wearing a jacket. That should have you covered, right?
Nope. No matter how cool the temperature feels, the sun’s ultraviolet rays can still cause damage to the DNA in your skin within just a few minutes. Humans are just not designed to detect UV intensity. Even though you think the jacket blocks some rays, every little bit of sun you feel on your face, neck, chest, ears or hands accumulates and can lead to the signs of aging and skin cancer. And those are the spots where skin cancer appears most often.
There is a better way to decide whether to wear a hat and apply suncream. Check the UV index on your phone or skin cancer app before leaving home. The UV index apps can be downloaded for free in both android phone and iphone. One of the better app is called ‘SunSmart’ app. It is an app distributed for free by the Cancer Council of Victoria. It works fine in Sydney.
The UV Index categorises UV radiation levels into low (1-2), moderate (3-5), high (6-7), very high (8-10) or extreme (11 and above). When the UV Index is forecast to reach 3 or higher, it can damage your skin and cause skin cancer. We recommend that you take measures to protect your skin from the sun.
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If you notice any new spots, it is important that you seek medical advice promptly. Remember, early detection may save your life. The best way to detect early skin cancers is to be able to detect new and abnormal skin spots. Please follow our Facebook to see one new skin cancer image every day. These are skin cancer images taken at the Eastwood Skin Cancer Clinic. It may help you to spot a skin cancer.
