National Don’t Fry Day is an initiative of the Council for Skin Cancer Prevention to increase knowledge and educate the awareness and risks of over exposure to the sun. The day aims to remind everyone the importance of sun safety and the use of sun protectants.

A certain measured amount of sun is not entirely bad. Sunlight is good for those experiencing seasonal affective disorders along with a sense of well-being. Exposure to the sun facilitates vitamin D production which is important for bone health, brain health and immune system.

Some exposure helps with the treatment of certain skin disorders such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Although, too much exposure to the sun causes premature skin ageing, wrinkles, lax skin, brown spots, and mutations in the skin cells that can cause skin disorders and eventually skin cancer.

Skin cancer is one of the world’s largest concerns as the number of deaths due to this have increased abundantly over the past decade. Overexposure to Ultraviolet rays (UV rays), from the sun and other sources like tanning beds, are one of the primary causes of skin cancer. Nonetheless, every individual is at a risk of skin cancer, but with light toned skin, the UV damage is susceptible. Individuals with a family history of skin cancer, many moles or freckles, severe sunburns are at a higher risk of skin cancer as well. It is curable if it is found in early stages. An early detection can be done by examining the skin often and recognizing changes in moles and skin growth. The safe and smart practice is to use sun protectants to keep oneself from falling into the danger of skin cancer.

The beauty industry has never been short of creating and developing formulas for sun protectants. New designs for sunglasses and shades to keep the eyes from UV rays have also been prevailing. The first step to safe sun practice is to keep the skin protected while outdoors with precautions like sunscreen, to avoid tans and burns. Keep the skin under as much shade as possible and do wear sunglasses or shades.

Not all sunscreen can be suitable for all skin types. Be sure to choose the right SPF sunscreen that not only suits the skin complexion but also does not cause allergic reactions such as rashes, itching. Guide to choosing the right sunscreen is very important.

Skin cancer is curable. Keep an eye out for any unusual growth or condition on the skin and get it checked immediately. Consult a dermatologist before choosing your sunscreen products and do not compromise on the quality and brand. There are various affordable and quality brands that offer sunscreen products.

National Don’t Fry Day is celebrated this year, on the 28th of April. Not many are aware of this day. So let’s spread the world and raise awareness towards prevention of skin cancer.