Doctors are horrified, but melanoma survivors know what they’re doing when they head back out into the sunshine

Could ignoring your doctor’s advice be the best way to stave off a skin cancer? Maybe…if you look at what skin cancer survivors are doing.

New evidence shows that melanoma survivors mostly avoid the sun for about a year. Gradually, they become less cautious the following year, and even less cautious the year after that.

Of course, their dermatologists and researchers are horrified. They see it as dangerous backsliding. But they’re stuck in the old way of thinking about sun exposure.

In fact, we should all take a cue from these cancer survivors who are going back to the sun. That’s because they’re instinctively doing what’s best for themselves.

Rates of melanoma are actually on the rise in people who work indoors, but not among people who work outdoors.

And using sunscreen is a poor way to protect yourself. Most sunscreens contain harsh chemicals. That’s the last thing that melanoma survivors (or anyone) should be putting on their skin every day.

Here’s the best way to make sure you get the right amount of sun exposure: Stop, drop, and roll.

Stop using sunscreens with harsh chemicals. Drop the excess layers of clothing long enough to get a little sun. Then, roll your sleeves down, put on your hat, and protect your skin from extended exposure.

Done. And finding a safe sunscreen is a breeze. You can find a few pointers here.

Sources:
“After Melanoma, People Head Back to the Sun: Study” Reuters Health, 10/2/13, reutershealth.com