A deep rich tan is a status symbol of sorts. But as estheticians and dermatologists well know: that tan can come with a high price — most notably, skin cancer. It’s the most common cancer in the United States, affecting one in five Americans in their lifetime.

That’s why it’s important to educate your clients about the dangers of too much UV exposure. Here are some simple tips to share with them:

1. Cover up even when it’s cloudy: You need to protect your skin from the sun every day, even when it’s cloudy. That’s because the sun’s damaging ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays go right through clouds.

2. Take precautions even in winter: It’s easy to associate winter with frostbite and windburn, but most people are unaware that UV rays can be every bit as damaging on the slopes as on the beach.

3. Use sunscreen – Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before you go outside, even on slightly cloudy or cool days. Apply about two heaping tablespoons of sunscreen to exposed skin and a nickel-sized dollop to face. Get help for hard-to-reach places like your back.

4. Find some shade: You can reduce your risk of skin damage and skin cancer by seeking shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter, especially when the sun’s rays are strongest, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

5. Wear protective gear: Wear a hat, sunglasses and other protective clothes to shield skin. Hats should have a brim all the way around that shades face, ears, and the back of your neck. Sunglasses protect eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts. Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best protection.

6. Remember to reapply – Sunscreen wears off, so be sure to reapply every two hours.

At Kudos, offer an array of comprehensive continuing education online courses in the field of esthetics that are affordable — and fun! By using various learning techniques, you’ll learn new skills in a way that’s visually engaging and effective, making Kudos is the best place for you to get your esthetician’s license. For more information, give us a call today.