As summer approaches, now is a perfect time to refresh your knowledge about skincare. This way, you can help to protect yourself by preventing premature aging and damage from harmful UV rays. Most of us know by now that there is no such thing as a healthy tan unless it came from a bottle. We should all protect our skin each day by using an SPF 15 or higher on sun-exposed areas. Our faces are especially susceptible to sun damage, so make sure you keep this area covered. In fact, 80 percent of the wrinkles on our faces come from damage caused by the sun. But don’t worry! It is never too late to start taking care of your skin to prevent further harm.

So remember: Always put on sunscreen with an SPF 15 every morning as part of your daily routine, wash your face before going to bed with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and makeup, moisturize you skin as needed to prevent excessive drying, and always inspect your own skin for suspicious lesions (skin abnormalities). Lesions are considered “suspicious” by the following guidelines: A) asymmetry, B) uneven “borders,” C) two or more colors, and D) a “diameter” larger than that of a pencil eraser. If you notice any skin changes or irregularities, you should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible!