Trust Me On The Sunscreen

Modern legend has it that Kurt Vonnegut delivered a commencement speech that began and ended with a reminder to wear sunscreen.

"Wear sunscreen.

If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists, whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable than my own meandering experience. I will dispense this advice now."

While not Vonnegut's, these words become powerful when you learn the treatment options for skin cancer. A friend who's beginning topical chemo for the second time in his adult life joked that at least he'd come out of it with "a new face." He says that because at least seven layers of skin will be removed by the chemical that will be applied to his face.

"Don't make me laugh" he warned because making facial expressions are extremely painful.

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and many cases are linked to exposure and sun burns when we were children. To prevent cancer apply sunscreen at least every two hours. This is true for those with or without a tan. A tan is no
protection from skin cancer.

Also, be sure you sunscreen is fresh. Sunscreen loses its potency after a year. With a bit of planning and protection, you can enjoy summer for years to come.