With summer in full affect, more people are out in the sun and prone to skin damage. Exposure to the sun can cause wrinkles, sun spots and even skin cancer on the body if proper precautions are not taken.
Dr. Bryan Harris, a M.D. at Lehman Dermatology Clinic, said that 1 in 5 people will develop some type of skin cancer in their lifetime.
“The main thing with sunscreens is to be sure you’re using an SPF of 30 and make sure it’s broad spectrum UVA and UVB,” Harris said.
Harris also said one of the biggest problems is the misuse of sunscreen.
“When you’re using sunscreen spray, those are good to use but you need to make sure you get enough on because a lot of the spray may blow off and not get you or your child, and may fall to the concrete,” Harris said.
Outdoor Lubbock businesses have to take certain preparations to ensure the safety of being out in the sun. Matt Taylor, the Sprinkler Foreman for Paradise Lawn and Landscape, said even on overcast days they have to prepare to get a lot of sun.
“We wear longsleeves when it’s really hot out to cover our bodies where we are not exposed to the sun as much and we always bring sunscreen,” said Taylor.
Harris said the best prevention technique is to apply at least a shot glass amount of 30 SPF to each body part.
