Summer Means More Sun. So Stay Protected!

Summer is just around the corner, and that means longer sunny days. Everyone likes to do summer activities such as hiking and swimming but remember too much sun exposure can cause sunburn at best and skin cancer at worst. Not to mention chronic effects such as premature aging. Let me get personal with you now. Just last month, I was diagnosed with skin cancer on my scalp and had to have a Mohs procedure done that required 3 cuts and 8 stitches. While the procedure was a success and I am skin cancer free, it was a huge wake up call for me. I now take extra precautions while out in the sun such as wearing sunblock, a hat and limiting my time in the sun. It does not mean that I have had to forego the sun activities that I usually enjoy, it just means I take many more precautions than I used to. Let me be your cautionary tale. My walks on the beach no longer resemble the people in the photo above.

According to May 2025 AMTA Journal, Stay Sun-Smart: Your Guide to Healthy Summer Skin

“Sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the U.S.” Also according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, and having five or more sunburns doubles your risk of melanoma."

So what can we do?

• Wear sunscreen if you don’t already. Look for SPF 30 or higher, apply over your whole exposed body, and reapply often.

• Wear protective clothing such as hats that shade your face and neck and don’t forget sunglasses. 

• Stay out of midday sun if at all possible. Save outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon or find cover while outdoors.

• Hydrate your body and skin by drinking plenty of water and use a moisturizer. 

The following image is me and my wife on a sailing for two cruise in Ibiza. You can bet we were protected and had just as much fun.

Take it from me. Do all you can do to protect yourself!

Tune in next week to find out what massage therapists can do in the fight against skin cancer.

Looking for an indoor activity that gets you out of the sun, into a welcoming place and makes you feel great? Book a massage appointment with Massage Refresh. Come out of the sun, slide into our table heated sheets, and enjoy a customized therapeutic massage. What are you waiting for? Book your appointment now!

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