Posts Tagged ‘Skin’

Skin Cancer Article on Prevention

Yes I know there are a million and one websites with skin cancer articles and as far as I’m concerned everyone is doing a good job especially when you read that a million or more people each year will get skin cancer. When you think that a small mole or a small blemish on the skin can cause so many problems adding up to that million mark.

I’m sure you know there are many different types of skin cancer, and that the worst of them all is the malignant melanoma type which can have the habit of spreading cancers to other parts of the body.

As with other skin cancer articles the aim is to bring awareness to the problems, and that by taking several simple precautions you can avoid being another in the head count that suffers. If you are fair skinned make sure you have a sun screen of at least the factor of 30 which should be re-applied every two hours. If the sun is very strong be sure to wear a floppy hat or something that will cover your neck.

With most people they tend to be organised when going on holiday, and that a good sun screen is one of the first things to be packed, yet at home the opposite tends to happen. People will go out into the garden to do some general maintenance in a pair of shorts and singlet vest without a thought what the sun may do to them.

After awhile they go back into the house and see their reflection in the mirror, and as they look like a lobster they decide to put on some cream. But by then the damage is done, and that the epidermis layer of the skin is already in trouble.

It is common knowledge that skin cancers can be cured but only if they are caught early enough, yet it only takes a small amount to break off from a malignant melanoma to start a fresh cancer deep inside of you.

If you’re not sure about a mole or a blemish on your body please get yourself checked out at the Doctors as soon as possible, and to keep out of the Doctors make sure you cover up with either clothes or sun screen.

The True Myths of Skin Cancer

Baby Boomers begin the fight against skin cancer. Until recently no real warnings had been given about the harmful effects of the sun.

Skin cancer does not choose certain people, it chooses everyone. Rich, poor, famous, old or young can become victims.

Excessive sun exposure is dangerous and everyone knows it. However, approximately 50% of people over 65 are diagnosed with melanoma or some type of skin cancer. When planning for an extended day outside make sure you put skin care products on the top of your list of right things to do.

Additional things to consider to help protect you:

1. I’ll stay under the umbrella and not get burned. If going to the beach – try to remember that the majority of the UV (ultraviolet) light bounces off the sand and water. Thinking that your beach umbrella will protect you is false security. Apply a sunscreen to any exposed skin including your face.

2. All sunscreens are the same. Not true. Make sure you read the labels. Having a high rating does not mean it will protect you better. Look for a broad spectrum lotion that will block both UV’a’ and UV’b’ rays. Also try to find one with either Parsol 1789 or Titanium dioxide as an ingredient. Did you know that suntan lotion has an expiration date? You better look because it does. Another important thing to remember is to re-apply your sunscreen every 2 hours. Waterproof sunscreen will not protect you completely although waterproof. It also needs to be reapplied.

3. My sunscreen provides protection completely. I wish this was true however, you need to limit your exposure on the beach…try moving the time so that you avoid being there during the punishing 10 – 4 time period. Wear a hat with a brim all way around to protect your neck and ears. Baseball caps miss those areas. Popular today in the sunny states is clothing with UV ratings. These fabrics are generally very tightly woven.

4. Skin cancer is always Melanoma. This is really false. Skin cancer comes in many types and degrees. If discovered early – Melanoma can be removed during an office visit. The problems begin when it or any cancerous lesion is left untreated.

5. My family all had skin cancer. Although an important fact this is not always the case. Generally speaking light skin, freckles and eyes that are light such as blue or hazel run a higher risk of skin cancer and wrinkles too. People with darker skin tones who tan easy are at a lower risk category but can still be vunerable. Completing a monthly examination of your body using a mirror is important with an annual checkup by a dermatologist.

5. I don’t go out in the sun much so I am safe. Wrong again, Melanoma can also occur on moles and freckles. It has even been found on the sole or bottom of a foot.

Warning signs are a sudden change in the size, shape or color of a spot. DON’T WAIT! Have it checked.

You mean too much to others to just let it go. It might not go away.