Unexpected sunburn areas you don’t want to miss

Many of us do well with applying sunscreen initially, but have a hard time following through and reapplying throughout the day. While you’re having fun in the sun, you always run the risk of missing a spot that will haunt you later. Sunburn is not only painful and uncomfortable but can lead to skin cancer later on down the road. 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:

• Eyes and Eyelids: The skin around your eyelids is delicate and can burn easily. Your eyes can get sunburnt, too. Wear sunglasses to block the sun from this sensitive part of your face and protect your eyes.
• Scalp: Avoid getting sunburnt here by wearing a hat along with using sunscreen. Hair cannot protect the scalp from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
• 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: Lips are especially sensitive. The lower lip is particularly at risk. 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.
• Ears: The skin around the ears is very thin. This means it can get burnt more easily. Protect your ears by generously applying sunscreen and remembering to reapply. A wide-brimmed hat will also help protect this area.

Have you had more than five sunburns in your lifetime? It may be time to see a dermatologist. Schedule your appointment with one of our providers today.