Being in the sun feels good, but sunshine damages your skin. That damage can trigger skin cancer. Skin cancer is America’s most common cancer, with about 1 million people diagnosed each year.

Doug Wilson, M.D., dermatologist at Western Baptist Hospital, said Caucasian people get skin cancer more often than those of African- American or Hispanic descent. However, all people are at risk. “Your skin may not turn red in the sun, but the sun’s ultraviolet rays still can hurt your skin and cause cancer to form,” said Wilson.

“Too much exposure to the sun can make your skin look much older than it is,” Wilson said. “Many women in their 40s and 50s, who worked too hard to get a ‘healthy tan’ when they were younger, are frustrated now with their prematurely aged skin and freckles caused by overexposure.”

Wilson said the sun is strongest from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is important to wear sunscreen at all times, but especially important during these hours.

“You can’t always stay indoors,” said Wilson. “The sun’s rays can still be harmful on cloudy days.” The following tips will help protect your skin:

• Put on sunscreen and lipscreen every day. The SPF number rates sun protection. Your screen should have an SPF of at least 15. Reapply every three to four hours and after you swim or perspire.
• Cover up. Wear a loose long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Also wear a canvas hat with a wide brim to shade your face, ears and neck.

To receive a free packet of sunscreen and more information on skin cancer prevention, phone Baptist Health Line at (270) 575-2918.