May is Skin Cancer Awareness month…

Why is this important?

With warm weather now upon us and the sun gaining strength every day, it’s vital to be
aware of protecting skin from the harmful effects of UVA/UVB rays from the sun.

UVA – deeply penetrating rays that can even pass through glass. UVA damages skin, resulting in a tan.


UVB – responsible for producing sunburn. UVB rays also play the greatest role in causing skin cancers, including the malignant melanoma.

Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. If left unchecked, these cancer
cells can spread from the skin into other tissues and organs. There are different types of skin
cancer — all of which are caused or worsened by sun exposure.

There are many misconceptions regarding effective sun protection for the different skin types. Below, we’ve outlined the most common myths (and truths) regarding skin cancer to hopefully shed some light on an all too common skin condition.

MYTH: Tanning booths provide safe sun; in fact they are a good way to “prep” skin for summer.
TRUTH: Most tanning booths claim to be safe because they emit UVA rays (and not UVB) that don’t burn your skin. However, these same rays (while non-burning) are responsible for deeper dermal damage over time which contributes to signs of aging due to skin tanning.

MYTH: Concerns over Vitamin D deficiency means I should not use sunscreen.
TRUTH: While many people nowadays are Vitamin D deficient, exposing one’s skin to the summer sun unprotected is not the answer. Only ten minutes of mid-day sun is actually needed to produce ample amount of Vitamin D for the day. For those who still want or need more, Vitamin D supplements as well as a diet with Vitamin D-fortified foods (milk, yogurt, cereals, fatty fish) are recommended.

MYTH: Makeup and face moisturizers that contain SPF are enough protection when heading outside.
TRUTH: These combination products are good if going to the office (with limited sun exposure), but if outdoor activity is planned, these products will only suffice if ample amount is applied (e.g., at least a marble’s size for the face and a shot glass amount for the body). Also, frequent application is needed (at least every two hours if outside). Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen to benefit from the Sun Protection Factor printed on the bottle.

MYTH: Waterproof sunscreen keeps your skin protected after going in the water.
TRUTH: Just not true. It will protect you while in the water, but it is best to reapply after you come out because some will rub off in the water or when toweling dry.

MYTH: The chemicals in sunscreen are bad for me.
TRUTH: Chemicals are technically only bad for your skin if it is sensitive. However, common chemicals found in household sunscreens like oxybenzone and octinoxate are extremely harmful to underwater reefs and the environment. So avoid chemical sunscreens! There are several non-chemical-containing sunscreens that don’t irritate the skin and also have a wide range of sun protection (against UVA and UVB rays). Those with sensitive skin should look for products that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

MYTH: During the summer I always tan, never burn; I’m not at risk for skin cancer.
TRUTH: Because the three most common types of skin cancers (basal cell, squamous cell, melanoma) are related to cumulative sun exposure, protection of the skin from the sun is imperative (regardless of skin type). In fact, skin cancers have been reported in patients with naturally dark skin as well as pale skin. So – just because someone tends to tan (rather than burn) doesn’t mean they are immune to skin cancer.

MYTH: I keep an eye on my skin and always look for new or unusual spots; I don’t need to see a doctor.
TRUTH: Everyone should have their skin checked by a doctor once a year. And not just any doctor, but a dermatologist who specializes in skin cancer prevention and treatment. It’s critical that people do their homework to find someone who can provide the best care.

While we love the warmth of these brighter days—let’s love it safely.

By Angelia Inscoe from The A Method