A Skin Cancer Advocate
- ‘Wolverine’ star Hugh Jackman, 53, knows a thing or two about skin cancer, as he has unfortunately been through it six separate times.
- The Australian actor says that he did not use sunscreen as a kid, and frequently urges followers to learn from his mistakes and protect themselves.
- Many people slather on sunscreen every day and think they are using it properly, but if you're not choosing the right type or not using enough, the reality is it may not be working.
“Another basal cell carcinoma,” he tweeted in 2017 of his specific type of skin cancer, which is also the most common. “Thanks to frequent checks & amazing doctors, all’s well.”
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These days, the NYC-based advocate, who is married to fellow Australian actor Deborra-Lee Furness, 66, doesn’t spend as much time in the sun, though he recently posted a pic of he and his longtime love all bundled up on the beach.
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After his most recent biopsy in 2021, Jackman posted a video urging people to protect their skin.
“Go and get a check and wear sunscreen. Don’t be like me as a kid, just wear sunscreen,” he told his 30 million followers, also reminding them, “Don’t think it can’t happen to you.”
Wearing Sunscreen Can Save Your Life
Many people slather on sunscreen every day and think they are using it properly, but if you're not choosing the right type or not using enough, the reality is it may not be working.
Dr. Cecilia Larocca, a dermatologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, recommends to SurvivorNet that you use no less than SPF 30 and reapply it every two hours. “Your sunscreen should also be broad spectrum,” says Dr. Larocca, meaning it covers both UVB and UVA rays.
Choose the Right Sunscreen and Use it Often
Plus, it’s important to know that you only get about 50% of the SPF on the label. “So, if you're using SPF 60, you're really getting closer 30 SPF of protection,” Dr. Larocca says.
To make sure you're getting the right protection, she also recommends using sunscreen every two hours and wearing protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses.
Top 5 Ways to Protect Your Skin From Skin Cancer
Following these guidelines from National Comprehensive Cancer Network will help reduce your risk of skin damage and future skin cancer:
- Avoid sun exposure during peak hours when the sun's rays are strongest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside
- Use at least SPF 30 broad spectrum sunblock and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors
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