Before heading out into the sun this spring, summer and fall, it’s important to take a moment and consider the harmful effects summer weather can have on our largest organ—our skin. 

Even when the sky is overcast, you still need sun protection. Overexposure to the sun can cause your immune system to malfunction, and cause melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer, as well as wrinkles, freckles and telangiectasias (dilation of small blood vessels).

“I would suggest watching for melanoma characteristics, such as asymmetry (one half is unlike the other), border irregularity (irregular, scalloped or poorly defined), colour that varies from one area to another, with shades of tan, brown and black, and sometimes white, red or blue,” explains Plastic Surgeon Dr. Sarah Wong with The Scarborough Hospital. “Also look for the size – anything greater than 6mm, but it can be smaller. And if it is changing in size, shape or colour. If any of these characteristics occur, have it checked out.”

While nothing can undo sun damage to your skin, Dr. Wong says it’s never too late to start protecting yourself from the sun. She offers the following advice: 

1. The sun can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. Wear sunscreen or cosmetics with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater 30 minutes before sun exposure and then every few hours thereafter. 
2. Avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible during peak UV times (between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.)
3. Perform skin self-exams regularly to become familiar with existing growths and to notice any changes or new growths.
4. The average T-shirt has an SPF rating of less than 15. Wear clothes that fit loosely and long pants in darker colours. Tightly woven fabrics offer more protection to your skin. Hats with brims can also offer protection to your face and neck. 
5. Listen to the news to get updates on the latest weather alerts. If a heat warning is in effect, try to stay in the shade, carry an umbrella or avoid exposure to the sun. 
6. Eighty per cent of a person’s lifetime exposure is before the age of 18. Foster skin cancer prevention habits in your child.