How to use sunscreen to prevent skin cancer

For those who will hike or be by the water, Dr. Jennifer Gardner has one message for Pacific Northwesterners: Keep sunscreen at hand, and use more than you think you need.

Gardner, a dermatologist, specializes in the treatment of melanomas at UW Medicine's Roosevelt Clinic. She stressed that hikers and water enthusiasts should be mindful about all areas not covered by clothes.

“When you are near more reflective surfaces such as at the beach or high altitudes, you have a higher exposure to UV rays; it can bounce off the surfaces at hit you at all angles,” she said.

Usually an SPF of 30 will suffice, she said, but people who are in the mountains, at snow level, or on the water may want to use SPF 50 or 70. For best protection, she said, use a shot glass' volume of sunscreen, approximately 1.5 ounces, every two hours on exposed skin.

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