Avoid Skin Cancer

Redlands Daily Facts Health Section
Staff Writer, May 13, 2009

Q:: I love the sun, but I hear so much about Skin Cancer. Can you give me some information?

Mimi:May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer detection and prevention month, which means it's time to see your doctor or dermatologist for your annual screening. Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers - and the most preventable. Thanks to my aesthetician who does my monthly facials, my small skin cancer was identified early and removed. Your spa service providers may be the best person to check your face and body each month. Your aesthetician will notice if you have any irregular skin on your face, and your massage therapist can keep a check on those moles on your back. Of course, they are not qualified to diagnose and treat, but they do see your skin on a regular basis and they can notify you when you should get it checked out further.

More than one million Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year. Most skin cancers are highly curable, but one form, malignant melanoma, is much more serious and has increased more than 100% since 1973, according to the American Cancer Society.

Overexposure to the sun is the number one skin cancer risk factor. And while this is a fairly well known fact, many people still don't protect themselves from either natural ultraviolet (UV) radiation or artificial UV radiation, like that from a tanning bed. It is known that people exposed to these sources will have an increased risk of developing skin cancer.

The fairer your skin, the greater your risk of getting skin cancer. If you freckle or burn in the sun, you are at highest risk. Still, people of all skin colors can develop skin cancer over time.

A must have this summer! The EPA states that wearing a hat and sunscreen is an inexpensive and effective way to prevent damage from the sun. Here are a few tips on how you can protect yourself from the sun during outdoor summer activities.

1. Avoid unnecessary sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., the sun's peak hours.

2. Make sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and make sure to apply it at least 15 minutes before going outdoors. It should be reapplied every two to three hours and after going swimming or participating in activities where you may sweat excessively.

3. Men are notorious for not wanting to wear sunscreen because they don't like the way it feels, or they perceive it to be greasy. For both men and women who fall into these categories, oil free creams, sprays or gels can be utilized.

4. Apply sunscreen even if you're wearing makeup with sun protection. Studies show that a foundation's sun protective value lasts only about two hours.

5. The so-called "physical blockers" such as zinc and titanium tend to offer the best protection against both UVB and UVA, the forms of solar radiation that damage skin the most. While many people think these types of creams as white and pasty, zinc and titanium can now be found in sunscreens that go on clear.

6. Wear wraparound sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection. Try to stay away from mirrored sunglasses because they intensify the sun's rays, which can ultimately damage your eyes.

7. Clothing provides very little protection from extended stays in the sun. The American Academy of Dermatology provides information on its Web site for obtaining semi-stylish clothing that confers an SPF of 30 or greater. This is great for boaters, anglers or individuals with a history of multiple skin cancers. Also, rash guards, (neoprene garments worn by surfers), can be excellent means of sun protection, especially for patients who are outdoors in the water for extended periods.

8. Some prescription medications, such as acne treatments and birth control pills, increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. If you're taking these medications, increase your sun protection. St. John's Wort increases sensitivity to sun also.

Ask your favorite spa for their sun protection product recommendations for your skin.

Mimi Barre is the owner of International Day Spa, 325 Cajon St., Redlands. Send your skin care questions to her at MimiB@INTLdayspa.com. She and her estheticians are available for personal consultations, (909) 793-9080.