Skin cancer is a condition that more than 6 million people get treated against every month. Luckily, as common as it is, skin cancer is also among the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer. The only condition is that it needs to be caught in the early stages to be excised promptly.
May has become Skin Cancer Awareness Month in order to educate the population on this type of cancer and its complications. It’s also an excellent opportunity for them to get checked for skin cancer, stopping a potential disease from advancing in its early stages. In this blog, our readers can learn everything there is to know about skin cancer and how to stay protected!
How Can Sun Exposure Lead to Cancer?
UV radiation from sun exposure is one of the leading causes of skin cancer, affecting thousands of people every day. This happens because when the skin is exposed to excess UV radiation, it causes significant damage to the DNA cells. If more of these cells get damaged, they can grow out of control, potentially becoming cancer.
The sun can cause damage, whether it is a sunny summer day or a mellow spring day. Two types of rays can affect the skin negatively: UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays target the outer skin and are often the leading cause of sunburns, whereas UVA goes into the deeper layers and prematurely ages the skin. Left alone, both could lead to cancer.
How to Protect the Skin Against UV Radiation
Considering the sun sets and rises daily, UV rays are a constant presence. That said, this does not mean the skin cannot be protected. Below are a few practices that could keep skin cancer away:
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Wear Sunblock
Sunblock is perhaps one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against harsh UV rays. The active ingredients in its formula will filter out the radiation while acting as a protective barrier, preventing the harmful rays from penetrating the skin. The higher the concentration, the better it can protect against UV rays.
When the weather starts getting warmer, it is recommended to get SPF between 30 and 50. Dermacare has multiple sunscreen alternatives that can fit into a skin protection routine. Whether our clients require a protective cream to apply in the morning, an SPF lip protector, or a tinted SPF to conceal imperfections, there are numerous options our patients can choose.
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Stay Away from the Sun During the High Hours
Sunblock is indeed effective at protecting the skin against harmful UV rays, but it still wears off after an average of two hours. While reapplying it is recommended, avoiding the sun altogether during high UV hours is best.
The sun is generally stronger between 10 AM and 4 PM, so outings should be scheduled outside those hours. Seek shade as much as possible, and if going in the sun cannot be avoided, apply SPF on every uncovered skin area.
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Choose Protective Clothing
While it may be tempting to wear clothing that covers the least amount of skin, the opposite is recommended during hot summer days. When the sun is at its strongest, make sure to wear breathable, protective clothing. Broad-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses could also help protect the skin and the eyes.
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Avoid Tanning Beds
Many individuals mistakenly believe that tanning beds are the better alternative to sun exposure, but it’s actually the opposite. In fact, the UV rays are more concentrated, potentially leading to skin damage. It’s recommended to avoid tanning beds, especially during summer months when the sun is already harsh.
Get Protected Against Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is one of those conditions that you can prevent if you follow the right steps and protect your skin properly. Sunblock is essential, but you should also try to avoid strong UV rays as much as possible. Don’t forget to check out Dermacare’s online store for all of your SPF and skincare needs!
For more information about skin cancer and how to stay protected, please contact Dermacare Medical Aesthetics at 858-230-8040. We have practices in San Diego, Carlsbad, and San Juan Capistrano, where we can welcome you. As an alternative, you can fill out our online contact form, and we will get in touch for an appointment as soon as possible.