5 Unexpected Areas for Sunburns

While you hurry to slather on sunscreen before having fun in the sun, you always run the risk of missing a spot that will haunt you later. Sunburn is not only uncomfortable, but can lead to skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation says that, “On average, a person’s risk for melanoma doubles if he or she has had more than five sunburns.”

Here are a few areas to not forget before you head outside this summer:

• Eyelids: Falling asleep in the sun is no joke if your eyelids end up burnt! Wear sunglasses to block the sun from this sensitive part of your face.
• Scalp: Getting sunscreen in your hair shouldn’t be a worry when applying SPF. Thin hair cannot protect the scalp from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen to the areas where the scalp is exposed to the sun or wear a hat to keep your head protected.
• Feet: The top of feet might get some sunscreen, but if you are napping on the beach or going without shoes in the sun, consider applying SPF to the bottom of your feet as well. Walking on sunburnt feet is no fun!
• Lips: Like the eyelids, lips are especially sensitive. Luckily, many chapsticks and lip products now include SPF to make lip protection easy!
• Hands: Applying SPF to your hands can often be overlooked when using a sunscreen stick or sunscreen spray. Be sure to apply sunscreen on both sides of your hands before heading out into the sun!

Lastly, avoid using spray sunscreens that can leave your SPF coverage blotchy. Applying spray sunscreens outside or in the wind can cause a lack of adherence to the skin if there’s even a light breeze. If you would like to schedule an appointment with a clinician to check your skin, please click here!