Skin cancer develops when skin cells start to proliferate uncontrollably. Skin protection today may help ward off skin cancer in the future. The majority of skin cancers develop in later life; however, harmful UV rays can cause damage to the skin irrespective of the age.
The good news is that you may take measures to lessen your chance of developing skin cancer.
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled proliferation of skin cells and is typically brought on by excessive sun exposure and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Although the majority of instances involve exposed skin, well-covered body parts like your hands or the genital region can also be impacted. Using UV clothing can help reduce exposure to sunlight.
Tips to Reduce Skin Cancer
There are many things you can do to prevent skin cancer from forming, even though some types of skin cancer have a genetic component. Some ways are:
- Wear Sunscreen
- Practice Sun Safety
- Avoid tanning beds
1. Wear Sunscreen
When you see sunscreen packed on the shelves, you know summer is just around the corner, but how do you choose? The following advice will help you choose the best sunscreen:
- Check the SPF. Pick a good sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 50 if you plan to spend a lot of time in the sun. If you are prone to burns, an increased SPF will provide better protection.
- Pick a wide spectrum. Using broad-spectrum sunscreen will shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays.
- Reapply. Every two hours, be careful to reapply sunscreen. Frequently reapply if you get wet.
- Observe the date of expiration. Make sure the sunscreen you choose has a good shelf life. It should be valid for three years from the date of purchase if there is no expiration date.
2. Practice Sun Safety
If you are exposed to the sun for an extended amount of time, it might harm your skin. Therefore, it’s crucial to always buy sun protection products.
UV Skinz certified sun protection products have been lab tested and proven to block up to 98% of UVA and UVB sun rays.
Here are some sun safety tips to remember:
- Stay in a shade: If you’re likely to spend time outside, look for shade to avoid being in the sun. This is particularly crucial between the hours of 10am and 3pm when UV rays from the sun are at their strongest.
- Sunglasses: Sunglasses are a type of sun protection that helps to protect your vision and the sensitive skin surrounding your eyes.
- UV Clothing: Wearing ultraviolet protection clothes may be a good idea if you plan to spend a lot of time outside in the sun. UV-blocking clothes can help lower your chances of getting skin cancer.
- Wearing a Hat: Put a cap or hat on to further protect the sensitive skin on your face. The most effective sun protection comes from wide-brimmed hats, which can also be rather stylish.
3. Avoid Tanning Beds
Using a tanning bed in place of staying out of the sun does not lower your risk of UV ray damage or skin cancer. Tanning indoors means more exposure to UV radiation. Long-term overexposure to UV radiation can result in cataracts, skin cancer, and eye cancer.
Health is not reflected in a tan. The skin produces more melanin when UV rays hit the inner layer of the skin. Melanin is the reason the skin has its color. It eventually reaches the outer layer of the skin and appears as a tan.
Skin and the Importance of Skin Protection
The skin is the largest organ we have because it covers the entire human body. The skin has several layers that shield you from the sun, the cold, and various infections.
We have two major layers that serve as protectors inside those layers:
- Epidermis
- Dermis
The epidermis has three main types of cells within its layer:
- Squamous cells
- Basal cells
- Melanocytes
The layer that houses glands, blood vessels, and hair follicles are the dermis. It is essential to protect your skin at all times since it keeps us looking young and helps the body fight infections.
Always hydrating your skin, limiting your exposure to sunlight, and getting adequate sleep are all strategies to maintain healthy skin.
UV rays, which are found in sunlight, are the principal contributors to skin aging and skin cancer. The worst kind of skin cancer, melanoma, might raise your risk if you are exposed to sunburn, especially when you are young.
What Causes Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is caused by many things, but below are the most common:
- Ultraviolet (UV) rays
- Dangerous chemicals that can cause cancer
These elements may lead to abnormal DNA development in skin cells, which in turn may promote the growth and development of cancerous cells.
What are the Different Types of Skin Cancer?
When skin cancer develops, the type of cells affected determines the type of cancer. Here are some types of skin cancer:
- Basal cell carcinoma This type of skin cancer develops in the basal cells. It is the most prevalent and slowly spreading type of skin cancer.
- Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that appears in squamous cells. On the skin, it frequently manifests as sores or red, scaly lesions.
- Melanoma is the term used to describe skin cancer that begins in the melanocytes. The most serious form of skin cancer is this one.
Effects of UV on the Skin
A type of electromagnetic radiation called ultraviolet (UV) radiation is emitted by the sun and artificial sources like welding torches and tanning beds.
When the skin is exposed to UV rays, it can age faster and show signs of sun damage like wrinkles and liver spots.
Additionally, UV rays might harm your eyes. They can cause the cornea to be injured or inflamed. The majority of skin cancers are also brought on by excessive UV exposure.
Conclusion
No one ever wants to be diagnosed with skin cancer. It is very important to avoid exposing yourself to things that could lead to skin cancer. One of the easiest approaches is to buy sun protection products and use them when needed.
Exposing your skin to UV rays is very detrimental to your health and could cost you a lot in the future. Always make sure you protect your skin from anything that could lead to skin cancer. You can always put on ultraviolet protection clothes when going out during the day or wear sun protection shades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of Skin Cancer?
Each type of skin cancer has specific symptoms to watch for, but overall, it is important to be aware of your body and to take note of any noticeable changes to your skin.
How Common is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer has been affecting more people over the years. It is estimated that one in two men is likely to have skin cancer in their lifetime. Also, one in three women is likely to be affected.
Is there a Cure for Skin Cancer?
Currently, the best form of treatment is to remove every cancerous cell in the body. Chemotherapy will be used to treat complex skin cancers.
