Protect+yourself+from+the+sun

Skin cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer — and one of the most preventable. Although repeated exposure to X-rays or contact with certain chemicals can play a role, sun exposure is by far the most common cause of skin cancer. Most skin cancer occurs on exposed parts of your body, including your face, hands, forearms and ears. Nearly all skin cancer is treatable if you detect it early, but it's better to prevent it in the first place. Try these tips: MORE ON THIS TOPIC
 * **Avoid peak radiation hours.** The sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation peaks between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Minimize or avoid being outside during these hours.
 * **Stay in the shade.** If you go outside, minimize your sun exposure by staying in the shade.
 * **Cover exposed areas.** Wear light-colored, loosefitting clothing that protects you from the sun's rays. Use tightly woven fabrics that cover your arms and legs, and wear a broad-brimmed hat that covers your head and ears.
 * **Don't skimp on sunscreen.** Make sure your sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.
 * **Don't use indoor tanning beds or sunlamps.** These can damage your skin as much as the sun can. There's no such thing as a healthy tan.
 * [|Skin cancer]
 * [|Sun protection quiz: Can sunscreen alone prevent sun damage?]