The Sun’s UVA & UVB Rays Don’t Take Off for the Holidays

By the time November rolls around, life gets a little crazy for many of us. The temperatures might cool down a bit where you live, and the world slips into holiday mode - which means parties, family gatherings, and perhaps a bit of travel. In addition, there are all the loose ends we need to take care of before the end of the year. Since all of this activity breaks us out of our routines and might lead to less sleep and more stress, it’s more important than ever to remember to take care of ourselves so we can fully enjoy the season. This means eating right, getting proper exercise and rest, and protecting ourselves from the sun’s harmful UV rays, even if we live in cooler climates. (The last point isn’t always the first thing that comes to mind when it’s cold… but sun protection is important all year long.)

Whether it’s 80 degrees or 30 degrees, if we’re exposed to UVA and UVB rays, we need to think about skin protection and skin care. Some risk factors that can lead to skin cancer include: unprotected exposure to UVA and UVB Rays (even in cold weather), indoor tanning booths (there’s no such thing as a “healthy tan” from the sun or otherwise), genetics and your skin type, and atypical moles (get them checked!). But even considering the list of risk factors, we can prevent skin cancer, starting with our eyes. The Skin Cancer Foundation reminds us that this highly sensitive area is especially susceptible to harmful UV radiation. The damage to this area can cause DNA changes that lead not only to premature aging, but harmful skin cancers on the eyelids.)

What can we do? Wear UV-blocking sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, use plenty of sunscreen, and head for the shade whenever possible. If you’re traveling somewhere tropical or live in a warm climate, add a new UPF 30+ or 50+ Wallaroo hat to your collection or gift one to someone you care about. (It’s always fun to get a new sun hat!)

In addition, if you love outdoor winter activities like hiking, skiing, ice fishing, or even if you just spend time outdoors… don’t forget to use sunscreen on any skin that’s exposed to the sun. (And apply SPF lip balm too!))

The good news is, thanks to organizations dedicated to skin protection, we’re not in the dark when it comes to skin cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. And, in the spirit of the holidays, why not consider helping one of these organizations in their work? You could start with Giving Tuesday (December 3), the perfect time to help in the fight against skin cancer through donations, volunteering, or simply by spreading the word about skin protection. If you’d like to join Wallaroo in supporting this important cause, consider the following organizations:)

The bottom line? While we might be pulled in a million directions during the holiday season, let’s not forget to take care of ourselves and others. Let’s support the fight against skin cancer… and remember…)