Kicking Off Skin Cancer Awareness Month By Looking At Sun Exposure

According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, in the U.S., one in five people will develop skin cancer by age 70 while more than 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day.

Skin cancer is prevalent in the United States, but also highly preventable, so for this year’s Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we’re looking at common ways that people are exposed to the sun.

Common Reasons For Sun Exposure

Sun Tanning

Tanning only became fashionable and gained popularity rather recently, starting in the 1920s or 1930s. This change caused people to shift from sun-protective behavior to sun-seeking behavior, which has lead to an increase in skin cancer. While people are aware of the risks, many continue to tan, citing reasons such as improved physical and emotional health, naturally having an active lifestyle, and desiring physical beauty.

Extended Time Spent Outside

Another common reason for sun exposure is spending extended time outside without sun protection. Some such activities may include gardening, swimming, going on hikes or walks, and more. It is important to protect your skin before going outside, even if you think you will not be out for too long.

Driving

People are also exposed to the sun while spending time driving. This does not just apply to owners of convertibles or vehicles with sunroofs; in fact, cars that do not have UV blocking window film can let in harmful UV rays that can cause skin damage. Automotive window film not only blocks 99% of the sun’s harmful rays, but it also provides temperature control to your vehicle and reduces glare.

Spending Time Indoors

Your home may seem like a safe space, especially from sun exposure, but you can still be exposed to UV rays from inside your house. Many people like to let the sun shine in through their home windows, but it can also let in harmful UV rays. Instead of totally blocking out sunlight, you can add residential window film to block the sun’s harmful UV rays, while also preventing the fading of your furnishings and controlling glare. 

Protecting Your Skin From Sun Exposure

Extended sun exposure and damage can lead to skin cancer, premature aging, and wrinkles. Sometimes you may not even realize that you're being exposed to the sun, especially while inside your car or home. Madico provides automotive, residential, and commercial window film to protect you from damaging UV rays, whether you’re at home, in the car, or at work. Contact us today to learn more!