It’s Skin Cancer Awareness Month – Learn How to Protect Yourself

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer and the most preventable. It can be just as damaging to your body as any other cancer. Protecting yourself is vital to preventing skin cancer and reducing the damage to your skin from prolonged sun exposure. During Skin Cancer Awareness month, we want you to be aware of the ways to reduce your risk and prevent skin cancer.

Always Use SPF Year-Round

Sunscreen is important, and while most of us probably remember to apply it during the heat of the summer, that isn’t the only time our skin can be damaged by the sun. Using SPF with a rating of 15 or higher daily on exposed areas of our skin, year-round an important component to protect your skin. Even when it is overcast or cloudy, we are still at risk of damaging our skin if we aren’t using a sunblock. Reapplying sunscreen after several hours or after sweating or being in the water, keeps your skin protected as even water-resistant sunscreen can wear off. If you are looking for a quality sunscreen for your face & neck, consider Skin Medica Total Defense + Repair Broad Spectrum Sunscreen collection. It is appropriate for all skin types.

Fake Tans are the Best Tans

Avoid tanning! If you really like the look of tanned skin, you can still achieve that glow with the numerous forms of self-tanning lotions or spray tans. Tanning beds amplify harmful UV rays to ‘tan’ your skin faster, which in essence is just damaging it quicker. There are numerous quality self-tanning products on the market that can help you get a ‘sun kissed’ glow without the health risks.

Routinely Check Your Skin

Skin cancer, responds best to treatment when caught early. Check your skin weekly, be aware of moles and freckles, and if something appears or changes, seek a dermatologist for advice. By making skin checks part of your weekly routine, you are less likely to miss a change. At least once a year, book an appointment with a dermatologist for a professional skin exam.

Looking for more skin cancer protection tips? Book an appointment with North Scottsdale Laser and Skin Care Clinic. Call (480) 513-2888, or schedule your next appointment online.