Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Given the amount of skin humans have, the potential for developing skin cancer at some point is high. Most skin cancer appears in adults over the age of 50. It takes years of exposure to damaging UV rays to cause cancer. Ease of sunburning, geographic location and pigment levels in the skin are all factors that can cause skin damage. The best solution to avoid skin cancer is prevention. Incorporating a few preventative behaviors into a daily routine is the best defense to keep skin healthy. Here are three ways to prevent skin cancer.
Protection is Best
Protect skin whenever possible. UV radiation happens whether the sky is cloudy or the sun is shining. Wear a broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen of SPF 30 that has both UVA and UVB protection daily. Be sure to reapply when participating in outdoor physical activity and when the UV index is highest. Water, snow, and sand all reflect sun-damaging light rays.
Stay in the shade when possible, especially in the middle of the day (10:00 am-2:00 pm) when the sun is hottest. Small and loose-fitting clothing is tempting in the heat, but staying covered is healthier. Wear protective clothing that has an Ultraviolet Protection Factor instead of traditional cotton fabric. Keeping skin covered prevents painful sunburns that can turn into skin cancer.
Wear sunglasses to keep eyes protected from developing a form of eye cancer known as ocular melanoma. Look for lenses that protect against UVA and UVB. Complement sunglasses with a hat to protect the scalp and face from sun exposure.
When it’s time for the next eye exam get an appointment with a premier eye doctor in Los Angeles, Ottica Inc. Their comprehensive eye test covers everything the standard test does plus a check for every kind of eye disease and malady. The medical professionals at Ottica Inc. take great care in thoroughly examining patients’ eyes to ensure their continued health and function.
Get Annual Checkups
The best way to monitor skin changes is with annual visits to the dermatologist. The average eye may not recognize that a normal-looking mole or stubborn pimple is actually a cancer spot. Conduct monthly self-checks in-between visits to the dermatologists. Those with a family history of skin cancer, fair skin, or a history of extensive sun exposure should check their skin from head to toe every month. Any bleeding, burning, itching or non-healing spots need to be examined by a dermatologist. The earlier skin cancer is detected and treated, the higher the chances of curing it.
Staying on top of annual checkups is easier with health insurance that helps to cover the cost. Use iSelect to find the best health insurance that fits a budget and meets personal needs. It’s easy to compare health insurance providers, find age and life-stage appropriate plans, and apply for a policy online. Specialists at iSelect collect basic information about customers’ policy needs and budget and provide comparisons on local insurance providers that fit the bill.
Avoid Unnecessary Exposure
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying some fun in the sun, but even with protective sunscreen laying out for a perfect sun-kissed glow is dangerous. UV rays can damage the DNA of skin cells which is what leads to signs of aging and skin cancer.
Tanning beds are horrible for the skin. They can have a stronger radiation output than the sun and this harmful radiation mutates skin cells. Once cells are mutated, they become cancerous tumors. UV radiation damages the epidermis which causes wrinkles and aged-looking skin. Opt for a self-tanning product over sunbathing and tanning beds.