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Learn more about the causes and preventative measures of skin cancer, and read about the stigma behind sunscreen.
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SKIN CANCER.
More than 75% of Americans claim they understand the importance of sun safety, but less than half actually follow precautions to protect themselves.
TYPES
The three most common types of skin cancer are: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
UV
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of radiation emitted by the sun and artificial appliances (like tanning beds) that can lead to skin aging and skin cancer. Even on overcast days, UV rays from the sun can still pass through clouds. Check the day's UV index!
PREVENTION
01
Sunscreen
Wear a daily sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, and wear one with SPF 30+ for extended outdoor activities. Reapply every 2 hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating.
02
Wear Protective Clothing
Bring out those hats and sunglasses to protect you, and sunscreen areas that aren't covered.
03
Stay Out of the Sun
Limit direct sun exposure and seek shade from the hours of 10am - 4pm, when UV rays are strongest.
04
Tanning Beds are a No-No
Tanning beds emit harmful UV rays. Using a tanning bed before age 35 will increase the risk of melanoma by 75%.
05
Commonly Missed Spots on the Body
Be sure to cover these areas or apply sunscreen, because they can still burn: sides & back of neck, upper chest, lips, tops of hands, tops of ears, tops of feet, and midriff.
CAUSES
Sunburns
Getting sunburned accelerates skin aging and skin cancer, and repeated burns only increase the risk.
Tanning
Damage is cumulative, causing DNA injury that can lead to premature skin aging and skin cancer. Consider sunless tanning products instead.
Atypical Moles
be aware of atypical moles, which are at increased risk for melanoma. Follow the ABCDEs of moles: if the mole is Asymmetrical, has an irregular Border, has strange/uneven Coloring, has a larger than 6 mm Diameter, or is Evolving in size/shape/color, seek a doctor.
Skin Type
Depending on your skin's pigment and reaction to sun exposure, you may be at greater risk for skin damage, aging, and cancer. Take the Skin Cancer Foundation's skin type quiz to learn more.
EARLY DETECTION + TREATMENT
Skin cancer can be curable when detected early. Regular self-skin checks can be beneficial. Follow American Cancer Society's instructions here for self-exams, and if you have any questions or concerns, consult a dermatologist.
SKIN AGING.
90% of skin aging is caused by sun exposure.
How do you prevent premature skin-aging?
Sunscreen. And no tanning! Tanning (both indoor and outdoor) damages skin cells and quickens aging, causing deep wrinkles, dark spots, blotchiness, discoloration, and much more.
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Sunscreen is a vital step that should be in your skincare routine, confirmed by Vogue!
THE STIGMA.
Many adolescents and adults avoid sunscreening due to the consistency or whiteness. While there should be no shame in skin protection, here are some ideas that might help!
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TINTED SUNSCREEN
Don't like the white sheen? Try a tinted sunscreen that is shaded to your skin tone!
COLORED SUNSCREEN
Deck out in fun colors with colored sunscreen from companies like Zinka!