Resources: Skin Care

Summer is slowly spreading its presence all over the country. Everybody loves the warmth of the sun, but when you leave your skin unprotected from from its damaging rays, you're playing with fire. So, as you are planning to pack for a summer vacation, make sure you include the following: sun-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Plan your itinerary to avoid direct sun exposure from 10 am to 4 pm.

Also, become familiar with all moles and blemishes on your skin so you can identify any changes. A changing, new or unsightly mole may require medical attention. Be familiar with symptoms and preventive measures of skin cancer from the following resources:

Skin Cancer Foundation (800) SKIN-490

American Cancer Society (800) ACS-2345

American Academy of Dermatology (866) 503-SKIN

If you are doubtful about your moles and blemishes, you may go for a skin cancer screening. A useful listing of all public skin cancer screening locations can be found in this Free Skin Cancer Screening Map .

Also, you may wear specialized dresses for protection from sun. Coolibar.com, SolarEclipse.com, SunPrecautions.com, SunProtectiveClothing.com are some of the leading companies in the business of sun protective clothing.