More on Skin Cancer Awareness – June 2013

More on Skin Cancer Awareness – June 2013


As we head into the summer months, and into the summer sun, it's time to remind you again about protecting yourself from skin cancer. Of course, you should be aware of skin cancer prevention throughout the year.

The highest incidence of skin cancer occurs in Australia and New Zealand, but Great Britain and the United States are not far behind. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States and is increasing every year. During the last three decades, more Americans have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lives, according to the American Cancer Society. Between 40 and 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will have skin cancer at least once.

The risks of developing skin cancer increase if you are in the sun a lot, exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays, and if you are fair-skinned with light-colored eyes. But those with darker skin and eyes can also develop skin cancer.
The most dangerous form of skin cancer is melanoma, which originates in the pigment-producing cells of the skin. If caught early enough, it is treatable, but once the tumor has spread, the survival rate falls from 99 percent to 15 percent. The non-melanoma skin cancers (called basal cell and squamous cell) are more common but less dangerous. However, if you neglect to treat non-melanoma skin cancer, it can also spread and be fatal or disfiguring to remove.

To help you avoid becoming one of these unfortunate statistics, here are my tips for reducing your risk of developing skin cancer:

1. Stay out of the direct sun as much as possible, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you have a facial exfoliation treatment, don't go out into the sun right away. Wait at least a day.

2. Avoid tanning booths. Instead, use a spray tanning service or a self tanner. Ask about our body exfoliation and tanning treatments!

3. Wear a hat when you go outdoors.

4. Wear dark glasses.

5. Examine your skin, including your scalp, monthly. If you find any unusual growths or changes in the appearance of a mole, see your doctor.

6. See your dermatologist once a year for a thorough skin check-up.

7. Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. Apply two tablespoons over your entire face and body and reapply every two hours if you are outdoors for several hours. Remember that we are exposed to damaging sun rays even while driving or riding in our cars. If you are confused about the best type of sunscreen for you, please send us an email or give us a call.