Defense!!!! Defense!!!!

FANatic about football? Well your time has come! Football is in full swing. And whether you are squinting in the sun at a high school game or decked out in RED at Memorial Stadium, your main focus should be DEFENSE.

The American Academy of Dermatology lists ultraviolet light exposure (that’s light from the sun) as the biggest risk factor for the most serious types of skin disease, including skin cancer. By now, most of us know that — but we don’t always think about it when we pack up and head out for the big game on a beautiful fall day.

Remember — just because it isn’t hot outside doesn’t mean the sun isn’t strong. If kickoff is between the hours of 10:00 and 4:00, you are outside when ultraviolet light is at its peak. The key is to plan ahead and take a few easy but important steps to protect yourself:

Sit in the shade.
It’s not always possible at big venues such as college stadiums, but if your son plays youth football or your daughter cheers at junior varsity games, chances are you are out there during daylight hours. Look for seats with an overhang or set your chair up under the nearest tree for the best protection.

Wear protective clothing.
After all, it is long sleeve season. Darker colors and tighter weaves provide more sun protection. You can also look for clothing with UPF ratings, which indicate how much sun protection the fabric provides.

Apply sunscreen.
Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it liberally to all areas exposed to the sun. Don’t forget your ears, scalp, and the back of your shoulders.

Kick off your play for healthy skin by choosing Midwest Dermatology for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of skin disease. Our home team of board-certified physicians and nurses will blitz skin disease and skin cancer with advanced treatments and tools for prevention and early detection.

If you are looking to make a healthy play, call our office at (402) 933-0800 to schedule an appointment.