July often means taking a lake trip for boating, swimming, and relaxation. Why is the most forgotten item the sunscreen? I have made that mistake a time or two in my life and ended up with a terrible sunburn. I am like most people that like a little color, but as I get older, I have learned how the sun can have terrible future effects on my skin.
Melanoma is a skin cancer that can appear in even the most seemingly protected areas. A couple of my friends recently had surgery for Melanoma. One friend had Melanoma on their lower eyelid and the other on their scalp requiring surgery. I am grateful that a simple full-body skin check caught these cancerous areas early. You, too, may know someone who has dealt with skin cancer; it is something we should all be aware of and take seriously. The good news is that sunglasses, hats, self-tanners, and sun-shielding fabrics are in style as that bronze glow. Don’t take your skin for granted and protect yourself from the effects of the sun. Always bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen 50 SPF or higher as part of your lake time essentials. If you notice an area of concern on your skin, call JMHS for a skin consultation with our dermatology professionals at 320-769-4323.
Kris Jacobson, LNHA, LALD, MBA
JMHS CEO