Honoring Memories While Protecting Your Skin This Memorial Day

As Memorial Day approaches, many of us are preparing to launch into summer — weekends at the pool, long days at the lake, and time spent with the people we love most.

I'll be doing some of the same, soaking up family time and making memories that always seem sweeter this time of year.

But one thing that will absolutely be packed in my beach bag is my SPF.

Why Sun Protection Matters So Much

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and this season always reminds me why sun protection matters so deeply to me — both personally and professionally.

Soon, memories will be thick as molasses as we sit around, eating good food and reminiscing about good times spent on the very same lake we enjoyed with Grandaddy Warren and my sister Kelly — both characters in and of themselves.

They lived full, beautiful, unforgettable lives. But both of those lives were also cut short by melanoma.

A Personal Reminder

That reality never leaves me.

Every Memorial Day serves as a reminder that while we should embrace life's special moments, we should also take simple steps to protect our health and the people we love.

Skin cancer is often preventable, and early detection can make a significant difference.

Enjoy the Sunshine — Safely

So as you head outside this holiday weekend, enjoy every second.

Make the memories. Take the boat ride. Jump in the water. Stay until sunset.

But please, protect your skin while you do it.

The best summer memories are the ones we get to keep making for years to come.

My Memorial Day Skin Protection Checklist

To my patients and friends:

• Wear your sunscreen — and reapply it throughout the day.
• Schedule your full-body skin checks with your dermatologist.
• Pay attention to changing spots or moles.
• Teach your children healthy sun protection habits early.
• Seek shade during peak sunlight hours whenever possible.
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses outdoors.

Sometimes the smallest routines can make the biggest difference.

A Meaningful Memorial Day

Wishing everyone a safe, meaningful Memorial Day filled with sunshine, gratitude, and time with the people you love most.

As we remember those who have shaped our lives, let's also take care of ourselves and one another — so we can continue making memories for many summers to come.

Dr. Ellen Turner is a dermatologist in Dallas, Texas and is passionate about skin cancer prevention, early detection, and helping patients enjoy healthy skin for life.