Skin Cancer and Cycling

Skin Cancer and Cycling.

As much as we may consider ourselves `recreational' cyclists and unlikely to trigger melanoma ... we aren't. We cycle at altitude, increasing the power of UV sunlight. We cycle for hours at a time. Human sweat increases the photosensitivity of the skin.

I wear an under the helmet head drape (see below). (And arm coolers, and sometimes leg coolers). Those who've seen me on my recumbent may have noticed this. SPF 50+ just doesn't do it on long rides. Neither does one application of zinc oxide on the lips or nose.

I refer you to a clinical abstract for further information:

Clin Dermatol. 2008 Jan-Feb;26(1):12-5. doi: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2007.10.001.
Outdoor sports and skin cancer.

And this is the very best under the helmet head drape that I've found. It is a lifesaver:

SUNPRECAUTIONS.COM

Helmet Drape

This unique, versatile Solumbra neck drape is attached to a brimless cap and fits neatly under bike helmets, hard hats and other headwear to provide full protection for your head and neck. It secures in front with hook-and-loop. Mesh panels at the side of the cap keep you ventilated.