Living Safely Under the Arizona Sun
Most of us are not biologically suited to survive a summer in central or southern Arizona without major technological assistance. We adapt to the heat in many ways, but adapting to the sun's UV rays requires deliberate, daily effort.
Sunburned skin is damaged skin. Multiple blistering sunburns increase the risk of developing melanoma, which is responsible for most skin cancer deaths. Prevention is straightforward: wear broad-spectrum sunscreen, seek shade during peak hours, and cover up with hats and protective clothing.
A question we hear a lot is whether there's much difference between SPF 15 and SPF 100 sunscreen. Sunscreen is an important tool in skin cancer prevention, and understanding how SPF numbers work helps you make the best choice for your skin. The key is to apply it generously and reapply often, regardless of the number on the bottle.
Learn the ABCDEs of monitoring your skin at home — Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, and Evolving. Knowing what to look for between professional skin checks can make all the difference in catching something early.