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Bernard Fox: Three Tips for Protecting Your Skin While Having Fun in the Sun

Chiles Research Institute/X

Apr 27, 2025, 13:10

Bernard Fox: Three Tips for Protecting Your Skin While Having Fun in the Sun

Bernard Fox, Co-Founder / President / CEO at UbiVac, posted on LinkedIn:

“Last week the weather in Portland was spectacular!!

Sunny and warm! Then I read two posts from my friend Paolo A. Ascierto of sad and happy stories about his patients with melanoma – a deadly type of skin cancer and thought I’d provide stats for all of us to consider and suggest there is something you can do for yourself, your children, and or grandchildren.

1) The worldwide incidence of melanoma is increasing – and it has increased faster than almost any other cancer over the last 50 years.

2) Melanoma is more likely to occur in older adults, but it’s also found in younger people and is one of the most common cancers in people younger than 30 (especially younger women). Melanoma that runs in families can occur at a younger age.

3) Sun exposure and UV lamps in tanning beds can increase your risk of developing melanoma. A 2021 study reported an increased risk of developing melanoma in the eye (uveal melanoma), a particularly deadly type of melanoma.

Three Tips for Protecting Your Skin While Having Fun in the Sun – Start with at least PF30

Dr. Jeffrey Farma advises applying sunscreen during all seasons, including the winter, since any prolonged exposure to the sun can cause skin damage. Certain activities, such as boating or skiing, can foster particularly dangerous conditions since water and snow are reflective and may increase UV exposure.

Although wearing sunscreen is one of the most important preventive efforts, it only works when applied properly and often. “A lot of people use too little sunscreen and don’t reapply,” Dr. Farma said. He advises reapplying sunscreen on exposed body parts every two hours, especially if swimming or sweating a lot.

Setting a reminder on your phone or smartwatch may help you remember when to reapply sunscreen, and if using a spray sunscreen, avoid inhaling it and spray it away from children and pets. Additionally, wearing UV-protective clothing and hats (often labeled as UPF clothing) can add another layer of protection when outside.”