In the upcoming months, I hope to write about some of the skin
concerns of the nautical community- the boaters, the anglers and
the like. No column of this type would be complete without talk of
sun protection. Most of us (minus those who are in denial) know
what a powerful star the sun is. We know that its rays are
incredibly damaging to the skin. The United States Department of
Health and Human Services has declared ultraviolet (UV) radiation
from the sun as a known carcinogen (cancer-causing substance).
This article is not meant to scare you. Look on the bright side (no
pun intended): Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor
for skin cancer. So the question then becomes “How do I protect
myself from the sun?” This is especially the case for the fishing
and boating community who are exposed to the elements- sun
and water every day.
While writing this inaugural column I chatted with a friend,
Captain Charles Epranian of Triple Tails Charters based on Pine
Island. Whether chartering a fishing trip, shelling or sightseeing
for hire, he is on the water everyday- battling these elements. He
is among good company- the many of us in Southwest Florida or
neighboring barrier islands- doing what we do and love to do.
When I asked him if he had any questions regarding sun
protection, he coyly responded that he has repeatedly asked
himself the same question. His answer to his and my question
was quite silly at first, but nonetheless true: To completely
protect you from the sun, do not go out in it, and for the avid
boater or angler, that means to “Fish or boat at night.”
Of course, for the majority of us this is not feasible. So we do our
best. We go out during daylight with all of our gear- our heads
donning hats and faces slathered in whatever sunscreen was on
sale. We love the water and sun and at times perspire profusely
(especially when fighting that 100 plus pound tarpon- or the like).
As a result, we lose any sun protective lotion we may have applied
that day.
So for those of us who are not willing to fish only at night and are
unsuccessful at keeping protected during the day, I have compiled
a list of recommendations for personal sun safety. Many of us
already know all about this stuff, and are in compliance. For
those of us who are in denial and for the occasional rebel- you
know who you are, hopefully you will learn a thing or two and
make some changes for the better.
The first thing to do, about 20 minutes before leaving your house,
is to generously apply sunscreen to all exposed skin using a Sun
Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 that provides broadspectrum
protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet
B (UVB) rays. Look for the AAD Seal of Recognition on products
that meet these criteria.
As for all fishing supplies, know where your sunscreen is at all
times. Always put it back in the same position. When applying
sunscreen, pay particular attention to the face, ears, hands and
arms, and generously coat the skin that is not covered by
clothing.
One ounce, enough to fill a shot glass, is considered the amount
of (SPF15 or higher) sunscreen needed to cover all the exposed
areas of the body properly.
Reapply a minimum of every two
hours, even on cloudy days.
Waterproof sunscreens are the
way to go because: boat plus
sun equals sweat. Pick your
vehicle- if it makes it easier to
apply, go with a spray on
formulation. Sunscreen in a
stick form works really well for
faces. It doesn’t usually drip into and sting the eye area. These
sticks are great for lips too.
Unless indicated by an expiration date, the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) requires that all sunscreens be stable at
their original strength for at least three years. However, if you
are using the correct amount, a bottle of sunscreen should not
last very long. So for all of us- this translates into, “Buy in bulk.”
Wear sun protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, long
shorts, hats with wide brims and sunglasses. If you are not aware,
there is some very lightweight breathable sun protective gear
made especially for us outdoor enthusiasts.
Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun’s rays
are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.
Check your birthday suit on your birthday with a board-certified
dermatologist. If you notice anything changing, growing or
bleeding on your skin, see a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early.
I hope you have found the above information useful. I anticipate
addressing more specific issues in the future such as early
detection of skin cancers and pre-cancers, common skin problems
found in the nautical community and any skin questions you may
have.
- Dr. Andrea Cambio
Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery
Andrew’s Professional Center
316 Del Prado Blvd. S. Suite 201
Cape Coral 829-7102
dracambio@gmail.com