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It's Don't Fry Day: Here Are Sun Safety Tips To Prevent Skin Cancer

MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- The Friday before Memorial Day is designated as Don't Fry Day. The goal is to raise awareness about sun safety, because skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. and cases are increasing, according to the American Cancer Society.

Here's what you need to know to protect yourself and your family from those harmful rays and prevent skin cancer.

Every sunburn counts, according to former acting surgeon general Dr. Boris Lushniak with the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention.

"When you have a bunch of these sunburns, or a bunch of even tanning of the skin, what you have is this cumulative effect that damages those cells to the point where they can start changing. And when they start changing, they can develop cancer.," said Dr. Lushniak.

Protective clothing like lightweight long sleeve shirts and pants can protect your skin. So can sunglasses.

Choose a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection, an SPF of 30 or higher, and water resistance. Apply about 15 minutes before heading outdoors and reapply about every two hours, or after swimming, or if you're sweating.

"The other part of sunscreens is to use enough," Dr. Lushniak said. "For adults, a shot glass size of sunscreen covers your whole body."

The sun's rays are strongest between 10am and 2pm. If you can try to stay in the shade between those peak times, it's a good idea.

Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early. If you notice any changes in your skin, see a dermatologist.

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