Sun’s out and so is the sunscreen… Overexposure of the sun can bring many dangers
Published 2:58 pm Tuesday, June 30, 2020
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Star Photo/Brittnee Nave Dr. George Winton, a dermatologist, warns that overexposure to the sun can lead to skin cancer.
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BY BRITTNEE NAVE
STAR CORRESPONDENT
As the summer months continue despite the unprecedented times we are in, people are flocking to the great outdoors for some fun. Along with the great outdoors comes the sun.
Dr. George Winton, a dermatologist with Tri-Cities Skin and Cancer in Johnson City, outlined the dangers from overexposure to the sun.
“Wrinkling, pigmentation, and skin cancer are the big three things,” he said.
In terms of skin cancer, Winton outlined the three most common types which are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Along with the sun comes a desire to get that nice tan, however, according to Winton, there is no real way to tan safely noting the worst is tanning beds.
“Tanning beds are horrible for melanoma,” he said. “You don’t see many squamous cells or basal cells from tanning beds but you are four times higher risk for melanoma if you use a tanning bed just a few times a year.”
Winton described some of the things to look for that could indicate skin cancer. These include a new growth, an old-growth that has changed in size, shape or color, or a new mole after the age of 35.
While the prognosis is relatively good for most cases of skin cancer with early detection, ignoring the signs can lead to serious complications.
Winton also said that skin cancer does not discriminate against age noting that even some teens can get it with the right genetic makeup.
To enjoy the sun safely, Winton had some tips.
He urged wearing sunscreen, in particular those with minerals like aloe in them as opposed to those with chemicals in them like zinc due to having better protection for them.
He also said this sunscreen should be one that blocks out most light, not just the Ultraviolet A or B. Winton also advised wearing clothing designed to protect against sunlight, such as shirts with SPF 50 and a big hat, is also a good addition.
“You want to diminish the exposure as much as you can,” he explained.
The hours’ sun rays are strongest is between 10 a.m. and around 4 or 5 p.m., so being out before or after these hours is also advised.
You can also still be sunburned when it is cloudy.
Tri-Cities Skin and Cancer in Johnson City can be contacted at 423-929-7546.
