During the summer months, almost everyone wishes they had a deep, golden tan. Unfortunately, there are distinct dangers for the skin associated with having getting that golden tan. The long-term effects of the sun can damage and even cause skin cancer. Despite the fact, you may love the look of a golden tan.

Every year in the United States alone there are over a million people diagnosed with skin cancer according to recent studies. Melanoma, the deadliest form of cancer is diagnosed in four percent of those one million people.

You can prevent the development of skin cancer and protect your skin in the hot summer months by taking a few steps.

1. Hats are Your First Defense from the Sun

The face and head are the main area that skin cancer likes to develop. You can protect both your face and head from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing a hat.

Your skin is at risk from exposure to the sun even when it is cloudy out. Anytime that you will be exposed to the sun for an extended period of time you should wear a hat, preferably a wide brimmed hat.

2. Skip the Tanning Bed and Go Artificial

There are things that you can do instead of tanning if you just have to have that radiant glow. A safer alternative would be to use a spray on tan, or sunless tanning lotion. The harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun are not being exposed to your skin with spray tans and lotions.

The claims that harmful rays have been eliminated by tanning beds are false. You cannot tan your skin and eliminate all the UVA rays, it is impossible.

A safe bronze glow can be enjoyed if you use a DHA containing sunless tanning cream. For your face, choose bronzers that work with your skin tone. (We’re loving Sorme Shimmer Glow in Bronzed.)

3. Do not Forget the Sunscreen

All dermatologists recommend using sunscreen on a daily basis. It is very simple to find a sunscreen that is easy to apply. Today there are a number of skin creams, make-ups and lotions containing SPF. You should pick a product with a minimum SPF rating of 30.

Make it easy on yourself and choose a sunscreen that doubles as a moisturizer. Sorme Daily Defense Cream has an SPF of 30 and does double-duty as a lightweight moisturizer.

4. Natural Sunscreen

A higher SPF rate may be required for those that have risk factors including skin cancer in the family history or light skin. When you plan to spend an extended amount of time in the sun, you should pick sweat and waterproof products.

5. Common Sense is Your Best Defense

Common sense is the best defense that you have, even though there are a number of things that can be done to provide your skin with protection from the sun. Go inside when you feel your skin beginning to burn. Wear clothing that covers your skin and do not leave your skin exposed to the sun for long periods of time.

It is not fun to go around during the summer wearing long sleeves but it is best to avoid the sun in order to keep your skin safe. Protect your body by thinking smart.