If you pack away sun hats with your bathing suits in the winter, you may want to reconsider. Based on information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the incidence of malignant melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer, doubled over the past 25 years. Furthermore, melanoma is more common than any non-skin cancer among people between 15 and 29 years old. Statisticaly speaking, one American an hour dies from melanoma, a disease which is largely preventable by taking proper precausions such as wearing a hat in the winter! Its not hard to find a winter sun hat that offers protection against the cold and the sun!

Winter doesn't necessarily signal a break from sun exposure, especially for those who exercise outdoors. UV rays penetrate clouds and overcast skies, and reflect off water, cement, sand, and snow. Mid-day rays are always the strongest, no matter what time of year. Some of the most common sites of skin cancer lesions are the areas of the body that endure year round exposure, such as the hands, face, ears, and the left arm of drivers.

So even in the dead of winter make a healthy habit of using sunscreen on your hands and face, wear a winter sun hat with a brim. Remember that you'll get the added benefit of remaining unwrinkled way beyond your tan-loving counterparts. For more information, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site at www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/chooseyourcover/