Ok, well, officially National Gardening Month is April, but whoever came up with that idea clearly didn’t live in Michigan. So we’ve decided on May instead!
You might not know that May is also National Melanoma Awareness Month, so let’s talk about protecting our skin while we’re pruning, digging and planting!
Working in the yard or garden is truly enjoyable, but it can also expose you to insects, toxic plants, allergens and most importantly, potential damage from the sun’s harmful rays. Here are some tips to help protect the largest organ in your body (your skin) while making that garden into an oasis you’ll enjoy well into the fall!
- Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants made of breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. This will protect your skin from the sun as well as providing protection from insects, poison ivy, nettles and other irritating plants. Don’t forget gloves!! The backs of hands are a frequent place for skin cancer to develop.
2. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears, and neck from the sun. We love this one because it’s lightweight, hand-washable and comes in some cool colors!
3. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin. Reapply every two hours; more often if you’re sweating. Tina Stratton, our Relationship Manager, swears by this dermatologist-recommended product, and we can attest that her skin looks AMAZING!!
4. Wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts, scratches, blisters and irritants.
5. Remove and wash gardening clothing immediately and check your clothing and skin for ticks. Remember that oils from poison ivy can be transferred from clothing onto skin hours after contact with the plant. (Note: if you get poison ivy, check with your doctor; many people are now allergic and have severe reactions.)
6. Remove and wash gardening clothing immediately and check your clothing and skin for ticks. Remember that oils from poison ivy can be transferred from clothing onto skin hours after contact with the plant. (Note: if you get poison ivy, check with your doctor; many people are now allergic and have severe reactions.)
And if you haven’t already, please see your dermatologist for a full body skin exam. It could save your life. https://melanoma.org/
