We often hear about the importance of caring for our heart, our lungs and our brain, but rarely do we give our skin the same consideration. But did you know that our skin is the largest organ in the human body? It should come as no surprise then that skin maintenance is critical to overall health and well-being. That’s why the American Academy of Dermatology designated November as Healthy Skin Month.
We’ve got four challenges to help you raise awareness with your employees about the importance of maintaining healthy skin:
1) Examine Your Skin
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. It’s essential to catch this early! Reward employees for visiting their dermatologist and completing an annual skin exam. Nothing can replace going to the doctor, but consider also sharing the Skin Cancer Foundation’s step-by-step self-examination guide to promote awareness and drive higher engagement.
2) Drink Your Water!
Adequate water intake will not only rid the body of toxins, but it will also leave skin looking younger and more radiant. The Institute of Medicine has estimated that adequate intake is roughly 13 cups per day for men and 9 cups per day for women. Challenge your employees to drink at least 8 cups a day (2 large water bottles full), 5 times a week and watch them glow!
3) Live Tobacco-Free
If you’re not already offering your employees rewards for living tobacco-free, let this prompt you into action! Smokers are twice as likely to develop certain skin cancers.
4) Winter Sunscreen Challenge
Don’t forget the sunscreen! Many people may assume they can put the sunscreen back on the shelf with the arrival of winter. However, studies have shown that daily use of sunscreen reduces the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun. Consider passing out broad spectrum sunscreen samples to your employees and sharing this infographic below from the American Academy of Dermatology. Reward employees who make protecting their skin a habit.
