Guest Post: Sun Safety for Summer Running
It was truly inspirational meeting so many survivors and hearing their stories. Not to mention we got to spend the day with so many others who love running too! It’s too late to run it this year, but please consider running or walking next year. The atmosphere is uplifting and you get the opportunity to raise money for a truly amazing cause. Melanoma and other forms of skin cancer are real and the word needs to continue to get out. And again! Don’t forget to slather on your sunscreen before your next run!
Skin Cancer Fast-Facts
- Each year in the U.S. over 5.4 million cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer are treated in more than 3.3 million people.
- Each year there are more new cases of skin cancer than the combined incidence of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung and colon.
- Over the past three decades, more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined.
- Between 40 and 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will have either basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma at least once.
All statistics are from the http://www.skincancer.org website FAQ page.
How to Choose Sunscreen
Since its inception in 1979, The Skin Cancer Foundation has always recommended using a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher as one important part of a complete sun protection regimen.
- Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.

The site of my latest skin cancer is on my neck. No tan is worth the long-term damage it can cause your body.
- Whether or not you choose organic or non-organic sunscreen, make sure that the one you choose has zinc oxide. Many dermatologists I’ve seen over the years say that a sunscreen is worthless without zinc oxide. Why? sit on top of the skin, forming a barrier against the sun’s rays. Click here for a list of sunscreens that contain both organic and non-organic choices that contain zinc.