Doctors preach awareness of skin protection with sunny weather ahead

With sunny weather being forecasted for the near future for the Coachella Valley, it means a lot more direct sunlight. It also may be a good time to think about protecting your skin from sun damage.

First Alert Weather Forecast for the Coachella Valley

According to the latest Community Health Survey conducted in the valley, the most prevalent cancer found in the area was skin cancer with about 9,000 people affected.

Dr. Keyan Matinpour MD, Medical Director of the Eisenhower Dermatology and Mohs Center, said it the stats were not surprising given the climate of the desert.

“We have sun almost year-round and at mid-day around 10 to 4 is when the UV’s or at the highest and really minimizing how often you go outside during those times is really going to have a long-term benefit,” he said.

Matinpour suggested anyone spending a significant amount of time outside should have a game plan in protecting themselves.

Read: Stay safe in the sun by knowing the best sunscreen options

“You could be under a tree, under a tent…that’s the best,” he said. “If you’re going to be in direct sunlight, you would want a wide brimmed hat, some protective clothes. If you’re going to have exposed skin you should wear at least SPF 30 or above sunscreen.”

Matinpour said anyone getting sunburns could increase their risk of getting skin cancer. It’s word being heeded by hikers on the Bump and Grind Trail in Palm Desert.

“I’m always thinking about protecting my skin,” Darcie Gray, a Vancouver, Canada resident, said. I usually put sunscreen on my face my neck, sprayed on my arms.”

At the BNP Paribas Open, many fans were also subjected to the blazing sun while watching tennis matches in open-air stadiums. Some made sure they didn’t get burned.

“Sunscreen is absolutely important,” Olivia Moore, a fan from Kansas City, said. “If you’re not used to out being in the sun and doing a lot of things outside but especially with all this direct sun.”

Fans could also buy sun protective clothing at the Tennis Garden such as the wardrobe being offer by FILA.

“It’s not only a benefit for our professional players but anyone who might be on the grounds here,” Heather Zeller, marketing specialist with FILA Inc., said.

Matinpour suggested anyone outside for a significant time this year to get an annual skin check-up.