Wear your Sunscreen!

My current product of
choice when out for a run:
Coppertone Sport SPF 100+

I'm fortunate for not having developed much of an interest in sun tanning. For one, I've battled skin complexion issues since my teenage years and was always warned against spending excessive amounts of time in the sun as it would have negative effects with the treatments (which is really a challenge when you're a cross country runner in Las Vegas, that's like saying to a fish 'you know you really shouldn't spend a lot of time in the water'). This shaped the healthy sun habits I still practice to this day.

From a young age I've been pron to lathering on my SPF 5000 before heading out of the house, whether to go on a run or run an errand.

I consider myself an advocate for skin care and promoter of sun protection, which is why I feel the need to share some tips as someone who spends a considerable amount of time in the sun. I am no stranger to the affects prolonged exposure (think lifetimes) can have on an individual, as I have witnessed family members in ongoing battles to keep cancer at bay.

Skin cancer is a growing concern everywhere, and more people should be working on prevention, rather than having to take a reactive approach later in life.

There's nothing wrong with a healthy bronze glow to your skin, as long as you are mindful of the time you spend in the sun. Here are a few of my tips I've integrated into my daily routine for skin protection.

• Get to know yourself. Make a note of any freckles, marks, bumps or moles you may have and regularly check to see if anything changes. A small growth is enough reason to visit a dermatologist. 
• Cover Up. I always lather on some SPF 50, minimum, before leaving the house on a run and use make-up with at least SPF 15 to protect me during the day. Especially at high elevations, you're closer to the sun. For the men out there, grab some lotion with SPF 15 to do the job.
• Don't forget your ears. The ear is the third most common area for skin cancer to appear, and is often overlooked when applying sun block. 
• Lather, Sweat, Repeat. If you're going to be swimming or sweating don't forget to reapply if you're outside for more than a couple of hours.

Check out this list from Competitor.com for sun protection products catered to the endurance athlete.

What are some of your favorite products and skin protection tips?