As temperatures rise and sunny days become more common, many people in El Paso spend more time outdoors during the spring. Whether it’s walking, exercising, attending outdoor events, or working in the yard, April often marks the start of increased sun exposure, making spring an ideal time to consider skin health and protection.
While sunshine has many benefits, including improving mood and encouraging physical activity, it also brings increased exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation—one of the leading causes of skin cancer. Taking simple precautions now can help protect your skin and reduce long-term risks.
Why Spring Sun Matters
Even during cooler or cloudy days, UV rays can still reach the skin. These rays can also reflect off surfaces like concrete, sand, and water, increasing exposure without people realizing it. And in regions like El Paso, where sunshine is abundant, regular sun protection is especially important.
UV rays are typically strongest during the middle of the day, making it essential to take precautions when spending time outdoors between late morning and early afternoon.
Skin Cancer Is More Common Than Many Realize
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and current estimates suggest that one in five Americans will develop it during their lifetime. Despite its commonness, early detection and prevention can significantly improve outcomes.
Checking your skin regularly is one of the easiest ways to catch changes early. Paying attention to new spots, unusual growths, or changes in existing moles can help identify potential concerns before they become more serious.
What to Look For: Warning Signs on Your Skin
A change in your skin is often the first sign that something may need medical attention. This could include:
- A new growth or spot
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- A mole that changes in size, shape, or color
- Itching, bleeding, or tenderness in a skin spot
For melanoma, one of the most serious forms of skin cancer, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using the ABCDE rule to evaluate moles and spots:
A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
B – Border: Edges are irregular or uneven
C – Color: Multiple colors or uneven shading
D – Diameter: Larger than a pea
E – Evolving: Changes over time in size, shape or color
If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.
Simple Ways to Protect Your Skin This Spring
Taking steps to protect your skin doesn’t have to be complicated. The CDC provides a few simple habits that can make a difference:
- Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing
- Seek shade during peak sunlight hours
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors
- Perform regular skin checks at home
April is a wonderful time to establish healthy habits that can last throughout the year. As outdoor activity increases, remembering to protect your skin and check for changes can help you stay ahead of potential concerns. Early detection plays an important role in managing skin health and addressing concerns promptly.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call (915) 521-7979 today to schedule an appointment or visit umcelpaso.org to learn more.
