If you are an outdoor athlete, spring weather may mean that it
is time to start taking sun protection more seriously. Even
though the temperature may be struggling to reach 50°F (10°C),
the sun can still wreak havoc on your skin. With a few simple
strategies, you can enjoy all of the benefits of exercising
outdoors without sacrificing your skin, your health, or your
athletic prowess. Skin Cancer: the Basics Most skin cancers are
preventable and the majority are curable, if detected early. The
Skin Cancer Foundation recommends checking your own skin once a
month. They also recommend seeing your doctor once a year for a
professional skin exam. Basically, anyone can get skin cancer,
but the main risk factors include having: - Fair skin - Blonde,
or red hair - Blue, gray, or green eyes - A history of sunburns
early in life - A history of indoor tanning - Many moles and
freckles - Family or personal history of skin cancer Anyone can
get skin cancer, even those with darker skin. Greater amounts of
melanin in the sk