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Summer Sun and Skin Cancer


Sun Basics

Before you embark on a summer beach vacation or spend hours by the pool soaking up sun's UV rays, it's important that you understand all about your skin—and how the sun causes premature skin aging and skin cancer.

In fact, sun exposure causes most of the skin changes that we think are a normal part of aging. Over time, the sun's ultraviolet (UV) light damages the fibers in the skin called elastin. When these fibers break down, the skin begins to sag, stretch and lose its ability to go back into place after stretching. The skin also bruises and tears more easily—taking longer to heal. So while sun damage to the skin may not be apparent when you're young, it will definitely show later in life.




As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.

SOURCES: WebMD Reference: "Sun Exposure and Skin Cancer." WebMD Public Information from the U.S. National Institutes of Health: "What You Need to Know About Melanoma." WebMD Feature: "How Your Skin Can Survive Summer." WebMD Public Information from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: "Sunscreen: How to Select, Apply, and Use It Correctly." WebMD Medical News: "FDA OKs New Sunscreen." Medical News: "Shade, Covering Up Best Sun Defenses."

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