3 Ways to Protect Yourself From Skin Cancer (Besides Sunscreen)

I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis fifteen years ago, and I have had several flare-ups flanked by periods of remission during that time. I'm pleased to say a number of new drug treatments have become available since I was diagnosed, but I've always been keen to explore alternative treatments, such as hydrotherapy, acupuncture, homeopathy and massage, as a way of complementing my medical treatment. I started this blog to document the alternative treatments I've tried and share information about current research into drug-free treatments for managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. If you've tried an alternative treatment that's eased your symptoms, I'd love to share your experiences on the blog.

3 Ways to Protect Yourself From Skin Cancer (Besides Sunscreen)

25 April 2018
 Categories: Health & Medical , Blog


No one wants to have skin cancer, or any other type of cancer for that matter. So, in a bid to protect oneself, many people hit the local store and invest in quality sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 during the summer. Additionally, they also purchase quality moisturizers and hats to protect the face from UV radiation. However, these aren't the only ways to protect your skin from cancer. You may even be exposing the skin to harmful UV rays through many other ways that you didn't know of. This article will teach you three methods besides the use of sunscreen that you can utilize to keep skin cancer at bay.

Beware of your windows

The windows in your home can be the primary culprits of allowing in UV radiation from the sun. If you love sitting next to a window during the day, you may be exposing your skin to the harmful rays. Similarly, if you drive often, the windows in your car do little to protect you from the UV rays. The windshield may be designed to repel UVA and UVB rays which are harmful, but the side windows aren't. So, consider investing in a UV filter for your car windows that can block out the dangerous rays. Also, as you lounge in your home, avoid relaxing next to a window where the sun hits you directly. If you have to, make sure that you are wearing sunscreen.

Stay away from tanning beds

Tanning beds provide a fast way of achieving a beautiful tan as compared to basking in the sun all summer. However, they come with a risk. The UV exposure you get during the tan can increase the risk of getting skin cancer. In fact, the exposure you get when using sunbeds and tanning beds is no different than lying in the sun. So, you should be aware that no form of tanning is safe for your skin as long as there are ultraviolet rays. Learn to stay content with your skin colour to avoid serious complications down the road.

Get regular checkups

Skin cancer can creep up on you even after taking all the necessary precautions to prevent it. The only way to remain protected is by getting regular skin checks. Your doctor will check every inch of your skin and look for signs of cancer. If it is identified, they will manage it earlier and prevent the spreading of the cancer cells. Consider getting screened at least once every year.

Skin cancer is real, and you need to be proactive about preventing it. Visit your doctor today for skin checkups and more tips on how to protect yourself from the condition.