What an ugly term.  As we put away the pool gear from summer and enter autumn, we may not think much of sunscreen. But, daily sunscreen use reduces the incidence of one kind of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends year-round application of broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all areas of the body exposed to the sun.  In contrast to squamous cell cancer, no evidence shows sunscreen decreases basal cell carcinoma or melanoma.  If you have any new or concerning or changing skin lesions, see your doctor.

I am both a daughter and sister of plastic surgeons so I am well versed in the benefits of daily sunscreen on the face and neck–to ward off  “premature” wrinkles.  Find a sunscreen that you like its feel and smell.  Place the bottle in the pathway of your morning routine. Use it daily and reap the benefits.

I tell my kids that a sunburn is like the skin screaming.   There’s no need for screaming. . .