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Senior Living Blog

Skin Matters

July 28, 2012

Seeing that skin is the largest organ of the human body, it would seem only logical that we need to do everything we can to protect it.

Senior Couple In Hats

And seeing as summer is here, what a great time to get informed on the do’s and don’ts of skin protection.

Since most skin cancer can be prevented, knowing the right ways to prevent it may decrease your chances of developing skin cancer and even help against wrinkles.

Avoid Sun Exposure

Not that you should avoid going outside completely, because we do need our vitamins, but limit your time in direct sunlight to 15 minutes a day and try to stay out of the midday sun (from 10am to 4pm).  You could also wear protective clothing. Whether it be a hat, some UV ray protecting sunglasses, or some nice (breathable) clothes, it’s always good to be prepared.

Wear Sunscreen

You’ve probably heard “don’t forget to put sunscreen on” more times than you could count. Well, whoever told you that, has the right idea. Using a sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 or higher can help protect you from many different skin cancers. When you are getting ready for a day in the sun, make sure to apply the sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going out. Moreover, make sure to cover all the skin that will be exposed to the sun, including the nose, ears, neck, scalp, and lips. In addition, make sure to apply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours while in the sun. The SPF value decreases the longer it is exposed to outside variables such as sweat, water, wind, humidity, and altitude.

Drink Red Wine…and Plenty of Water

Yup, you read correctly. Red wine contains resveratrol, a compound that activates anti-aging sirtuins. Sirtuins are proteins that block certain biological processes that contribute to aging. Studies have shown that resveratrol may offer great anti-aging benefits. But of course, don’t forget the importance of drinking water and staying hydrated.

Simplify It:

An easy way to remember your skin protection steps is as easy as A, B, C, and D. Just remember: A = Avoid, B = Block, C = Cover, and D= Drink.

For more information on keeping your skin healthy and skin cancer visit the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Do you want to know what else is as easy as your ABCs? Choosing your Medigap policy, here with us as MedicareMall, that is just right for you. We will find the Medigap plan, Medicare Advantage plan, or prescription drug plan that’s right for you. We’ve been in the senior health insurance business for over 20 years, leading people like you to the very best coverage to meet their needs. Medigap plans can be used wherever Medicare is accepted, so our policies will give you a broad selection of medical professionals to choose from. Better yet, just call us the sunscreen of insurance companies, protecting you from every direction. Complete our Medigap Plans quote form or speak to a Medigap plans representative today.

Skin Matters © 2012 MedicareMall.com