“There are many misconceptions about who can get skin cancer and how you get skin cancer. The fact that melanoma is the most preventable cancer, yet still on the rise, shows that more education is needed.” – Darrell S. Rigel, MD

As the weather gets warmer and the sun starts to shine, more people are spending time outside. While enjoying the outdoors is recommended, ignoring the harmful effects caused by the sun’s rays is not.  1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in his or her lifetime – don’t let it be you!

In a study conducted by MELA Sciences, Inc., only 24% of Americans have had a skin check by a dermatologist. “Annual skin cancer screenings are critically important because they can catch skin cancer, including melanoma, in its earliest, most curable stage,” explains Elsevier Author, Darrell Rigel, MD. Besides getting your skin checked regularly, what else can you do to prevent skin cancer? Dr. Rigel has the answers! In a recent interview, Dr. Rigel presents three easy tips to lower your risk of getting skin cancer.

• Wear Sunscreen. It’s one of the easiest things you can do to prevent skin cancer! Dr. Rigel suggests “a sunscreen that’s SPF 30 or higher and that’s got broad-spectrum to protect from both ultraviolet B and ultraviolet A rays” as well as a long-lasting formula, like helioplex. To make this task easier, many daily moisturizers have sunscreen included. And for you women out there, try purchasing a makeup with an SPF!
• Avoid the Midday Sun. It’s during the midday hours that the sun’s rays are the strongest. Find some shade or go inside when afternoon rolls around. Dr. Rigel suggests spending your lunch break indoors – or if you want some fresh air, look for a shady area.
• Protect your Skin. When you’re outside it’s best to cover your skin. “Wear that broad-brimmed hat, wear those long sleeves”, says Dr. Rigel. And opt for bright or dark colored clothing – a plain white t-shirt lets in about 1/5 of the sun’s rays, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. 

Darrell S. Rigel, MD is a Clinical Dermatology professor at New York University Medical Center. He is a dermatologist with a special interest in skin cancer and melanoma – he is a highly cited authority on the topic. Dr. Rigel is co-author of Cancer of the Skin, which is a leading text within the dermatology field.

To learn more, visit Dr. Darrell Rigel’s Elsevier Authors bio page! Find out more about dermatology and skin cancer by visiting Elsevier’s dermatology author bio pages!