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5 Reasons to Be Aware of Advanced Melanoma Even During Winter

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UV Rays Are Strong

Eighty percent of UV rays can get through wintry clouds, fog and haze. Just because you don’t see sun rays doesn’t mean they’re not coming through. Source: Winter Sun Awareness. Melanoma Network of Canada. Retrieved December 5, 2014. https://www.melanomanetwork.ca/wintersun Vladimir Blinov/PhotoSpin

Higher Altitude, Higher Radiation

The amount of UV radiation increases 4-5 percent every 1,000 feet above sea level. At an altitude of 10,000 feet, the sun may be up to 45 percent more intense. If you ski and snowboard or participate in other snow activities at high elevations, it's important to be aware of this. Source: Essential Outdoor Sun Safety Tips for Winter. Skincancer.org. Retrieved December 5, 2014. http://www.skincancer.org/healthy-lifestyle/outdoor-activities/essential-sun-safety-information-for-skiers-and-snowboarders Benis Arapovic/PhotoSpin

Snow Reflects 80 percent of UV Rays

Snow reflects up to 80 percent of UV rays (more than water or sand), so you’re getting almost twice the amount of radiation. Skiers and snowboarders are especially at risk, so it is important to use a teaspoon of sunscreen on the face and wear protective gear when doing snow sports. Sources: Essential Outdoor Sun Safety Tips for Winter. Skincancer.org. Retrieved December 5, 2014. http://www.skincancer.org/healthy-lifestyle/outdoor-activities/essential-sun-safety-information-for-skiers-and-snowboarders Anna Rutkovskaya/PhotoSpin

Snow and Wind May Reduce Sunscreen Effectiveness

Snow and strong wind can wear away sunscreen, so you may need to apply more or reapply more often. Wintry conditions can make your skin dry, so look for sunscreens with lanolin or glycerin to keep skin moisturized. Source: Essential Outdoor Sun Safety Tips for Winter. Skincancer.org. Retrieved December 5, 2014. http://www.skincancer.org/healthy-lifestyle/outdoor-activities/essential-sun-safety-information-for-skiers-and-snowboarders Gennadiy Kravchenko/PhotoSpin

Some Face Areas Are Often Missed

People often forget to put sunscreen on the lips, ears, eye area, neck, underside of chin, scalp and hands, especially in the winter. Wearing clothing that covers these areas will also help. Source: Skin Cancer Prevention Also Important in Winter. Stanford Health Care. Retrieved December 5, 2014. http://stanfordhealthcare.org/stanford-health-now/2014/skin-cancer-winter.html Tags: melanoma, skin cancer, winter, advanced melanoma risks Angel Nieto/PhotoSpin

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