May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. As summer nears, there is a definite increase in exposure to the sun’s harmful rays, making summer skincare key in skin cancer prevention efforts. Researchers estimate 1 in 5 Americans will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime. As a matter of fact, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in both men and women in the United States.
There are three major types of skin cancer. Basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers are more common than melanoma. Although melanoma is rare (< 5% of skin cancer diagnoses), it is more likely to spread to other parts of the body and accounts for the majority of deaths due to skin cancer. It should be noted that skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer and, like most other cancers, is highly treatable when detected early.
In observance of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Precision MD would like to share some summer skincare tips. These tips can actually be implemented year-round, as the danger from the sun’s rays exists in all seasons.
- Apply sunscreen liberally and frequently
The importance of sunscreen not only in summer skincare but also year-round skincare cannot be overstated. Sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before heading outdoors or hitting the beach. Apply at least one ounce (enough to fill a shot glass) all over the body while naked, before donning swimwear or other clothing. Certain scenarios, such as prolonged sun exposure, heavy sweating, and swimming, call for reapplication of sunscreen at 2 to 3-hour intervals. Sunscreen application can decrease the risk of skin cancer, can go a long way in minimizing sun-related spots, and may even help delay the onset of fine lines and wrinkles.
Qualities to look for in a sunscreen include:
- Lightweight formula free of oil, which can clog pores
- Sun protection factor (SPF) 30 or higher, which blocks 97% of harmful UV rays
- Broad spectrum, meaning the sunscreen blocks both forms (UVA/UVB) of UV light
- Water resistance, which means water will not wash it or its blocking abilities immediately away. Just don’t forget to reapply every 2 to 3 hours, as its UV blocking ability wears off.
- Screen with clothing
A broad-brimmed hat, not a baseball cap, offers the best protection from the sun. Today, there are garments specially designed for protection against skin cancer causing UV rays that offer ultraviolet protection factor (UPF).
There isn’t always a need to buy special clothing. Densely woven or knitted, bright or dark colored, and unbleached cottons may already be a part of your wardrobe and offer great sun protection by absorbing or reflecting harmful UV rays. Lastly, wear long pants and long sleeves whenever possible for maximum skin coverage.
- Seek shade
This summer skincare advice almost goes without saying. The sun’s rays are the harshest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during the summer months, so avoiding exposure around these times can go a long way in terms of protecting yourself from sunburns and skin cancer developments. Some experts advocate the “shadow rule.” If your shadow is taller than you, then the sun’s UV rays are less intense; if your shadow is shorter than you, UV rays are more intense.
- Avoid tanning, tanning beds/booths, and sunburns
Today, sunless tanning products are better than ever, and even are available in streak-free preparations. Individuals who use tanning beds/booths are 74% more likely to develop melanoma. Additionally, these individuals are 1.5 times more likely to develop basal cell skin cancer and 2.5 times more likely to develop squamous cell skin cancer than non-tanners. Furthermore, 5 or more sunburns during your lifetime significantly increases your chances of developing melanoma.
- Apply lip balm
The lips are a common site for skin cancer. The skin on your lips produces significantly less melanin, a protective pigment, than the skin on the rest of your body. As a result, the lips tend to get dry and are sun-damaged more than any other part of the face. Experts recommend a richly textured lip balm with at least an SPF 15 (30 is even better) and to apply regularly when outdoors.
- Diet (a forgotten sunscreen)
Last but not least, diet can be a natural sunscreen employed in a sensible summer skincare regimen. Vitamins C and E can actually boost your SPF by several factors and limit the potential for sunburn. Citrus fruit, red peppers, cantaloupe, and watermelon are rich in vitamin C and also hydrate the skin from within. Almonds, spinach, trout, and avocados are examples of food that are rich in vitamin E. Red wine contains resveratrol, a naturally occurring substance in the skin of red grapes, which has antioxidant-like and anti-inflammatory properties that can decrease redness from acute sunburns.
We hope that these summer skincare tips allow you to enjoy the sunshine wherever your summer plans take you. If you have skin concerns, call Precision MD today to schedule a free consultation.
