May 1st rings in not just a beautiful season, but it also is the gathering of Skin Cancer Awareness month. Skin Cancer survivors and supporters come together to share their stories and spread awareness and prevention. At SKN BAR Rx it is our sole purpose to ensure your skin is at its healthiest, meaning informing our patients what to do, what not to do, and what to be aware of. Skin Cancer is one of these topics we inform our patients about to ensure they are taking the proper precautions and protecting their skin against the harsh environment.
WHAT IS SKIN CANCER?
To start, skin is the largest organ in our bodies, and skin has several layers (epidermis and dermis). Skin cancer begins in the epidermis and is caused by an over exposure to ultraviolet rays (UV) from the sun, tanning beds or sun lamps. The UV rays can damage cells which is why we see our skin turn to a sunburn when we’re in the sun for too long. UV damage builds over time leading to changes in skin texture, premature aging and skin cancer.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE AWARE OF SKIN CANCER?
Skin cancer is deadly. Melanoma is the third most common type of skin cancer that can lead to death. If that isn’t enough reason to take precaution in the sun, you will also be protecting your skin from aging, dull textured skin and pigmentation.
WHAT PREVENTATIVE MEASURES CAN I TAKE TO PROTECT MYSELF?
SPF: Wearing SPF daily is crucial to preventing skin cancer. We stress to all our patients at SKN BAR Rx the importance of SPF and recommend many options they can take home. Opt for a mineral based, 30SPF protection sunscreen with zinc oxide included and reapply every 90 minutes.
Learn about our favorite SPFS in our blog, “Best 5 SPF Products For 2023”
SHADE: Stay in the shade when outdoors or use a stylish umbrella if you’re out at a beach. Heading to Pewaukee beach? Stop over to SKN BAR Rx across the street and borrow one of our sun blocking umbrellas we have available for our patients.
DRESS WISELY: While at the beach or lake wear clothing that will protect you from harsh UV rays such as a long sleeve button up, long flowy pants, or beach dress cover up. Additionally, we suggest you bring a hat everywhere with you when you are out and about in direct sunlight. When at the beach, opting for a wide brim all the way around is best. Lastly, sunglasses are a must. You may not think of it initially, but sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts. They also protect the thin skin around your eyes which helps prevent wrinkles around the eye.
HOW TO SELF CHECK FOR SKIN CANCER:
It is very important to self check your skin often. Check your moles and markings on all areas of your body. Use a mirror or a family member/trusted partner to check your back and areas you cannot easily see. An easy way to remember how to self-check is to use the acronym, the ABCSE’s of skin cancer, which are the five warnings signs of skin cancer:
A – Asymmetry
Look for an irregular, asymmetric marking on your body (skin cancer can often be confused as a mole). Melanoma is often asymmetrical, which means the shape isn’t uniform.
B – Border
Look for borders around the marketing that are irregular in shape. Non-cancerous moles usually have smooth, well-defined borders.
C – Color
Look for a mix of colors or shades in the marking. Moles that are benign are typically one color.
D – Diameter
Check the size. Most cancerous moles are larger than 6mm in diameter.
E – Evolving
Keep an eye on the marking and if it changes in size. Most cancerous moles will often change characteristics, such as size, shape or color.
If an area of growth on your body displays one of these signs it is recommended to see your dermatologist right away to be properly evaluated.
TREATMENTS FOR PIGMENTATION & PREVENTION:
If you have sun damage over time you will notice signs of pigmentation on your skin. To help heal sun damage pigmentation we have top of the line treatments available at SKN BAR Rx. Please note that these treatments are for pigmentation and prevention, not for treating skin cancer. If you are unsure if a mole is cancerous meet your dermatologist immediately.
BBL: BBL stands for Broad Band Light. This treatment utilizes a laser to lift pigment to the surface. Once the pigmentation has been brought to the surface, it will fall off within 7-14 days leaving the skin more even, brighter and younger looking. We recommend scheduling a consultation so we can assess your skin first before scheduling your BBL treatment.
Schedule a laser consultation here
Clear and Brilliant Laser: This laser is a no downtime option that offers benefits of reducing hyperpigmentation and sun damage.
Schedule a Clear & Brilliant laser service here
Chemical Peels: We have many chemical peels at SKN BAR Rx that will help brighten and improve your skin’s tone and texture.
Skin cancer awareness is vital for all of our patients to understand and be knowledgeable on. Many have suffered from skin cancer and there are steps we can take to prevent the growth of skin cancer.
SKN BAR Rx supports the following organizations in their fight against skin cancer and steps to spread awareness. If you are able to, we encourage you to donate to the following skin cancer awareness organizations.
abby
Licensed Aesthetician, SKN BAR Rx
