Skin cancer prevention handbook

http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/graphics/handbook

How to spot skin cancer

http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/graphics/exam



Can having a base tan reduce further sun damage?

Myth: Since a base tan can prevent sunburn, does that mean I am reducing sun damage and skin aging by tanning?

Busted! 

Tanning is a sign the skin has already been injured.  Tanning is the body's attempt to prevent further harm by producing extra pigment.  UV light damages skin cell's DNA, which causes tanning, but also accelerates skin aging and increases skin cancer risk.  Never lay out to get a tan and NEVER go to tanning beds!  It only takes one damaged skin cell to start a skin cancer.

 

Below are some sunscreens that I recommend you keep on hand for yourself and for your kids.

 

        

Is my skin too far gone?

Myth:  I have already had years of sun damage, there is no reason to start protecting my skin now.

Busted!

This type of thinking is false!  It is never too late to start protecting your skin.  Sun damage is cumulative and the best time to start protecting it is now!  In a study from Australia(1), patients of all different ages who used SPF 15+ daily for 14 years, reduced their risk of melanoma by 50%.  Using sunscreen daily allows the skin a chance to use its own repair mechanisms.

Below are some sunscreens that I recommend you keep on hand for yourself and for your kids.

 

        

 

1. Green AC, Williams GM, Logan V, Strutton GM. Reduced melanoma after regular sunscreen use: randomized trial follow-up. Journ Clin Oncol 2011; 29(3):257-63. doi: 10.1200/JCO.2010.28.7078.

Baby sun protection

The first 18 years of life are crucial for preventing sun damage. For babies 6 months and younger, try to avoid being outside for extended periods of time in order to prevent overheating and protect against sunburns. Keep in mind that sunscreen is not typically recommended for use on babies under 6 months so it's best to stay in doors.
When you do venture out, reach for rash guard swim suits and floppy hats to protect those kiddos. After 6 months of age, sunscreen can be used, so make sure you are applying the right amount to keep your baby's skin beautiful. I recommend mineral based sun protection like Aveeno Baby mineral block, CeraVe Baby sunscreen, Vanicream sunscreen and EltaMD UV pure.  For older kids, the sprays and sticks are nice for ease of use. Just make sure you are getting a thorough enough coating for adequate protection. After using a spray, the skin should be glistening and moist. Protect those kiddos now and they will thank you later!
              

Insect bites - How to protect and treat

        Insect bites - How to protect and treat       



 

Everyone's least favorite part of summer...insect bites! From mosquitos to chiggers and mites, prevention is crucial to enjoying your time outside. Try to wear lightly colored protective clothing and wear insect repellant with DEET (unfortunately, other repellents just don't seem to do the trick).
If you are bitten, avoid scratching as this will only worsen and perpetuate the itchiness and keep the itch-scratch cycle going. A few other suggestions for those itchy bites:

• Oral antihistamines such as Claritin and topical cortisones, which are available at all major retail and drug stores
• Cool compresses can really help calm the itching.
• Avoid hot water and showers.
• Sarna lotion can be kept in the refrigerator and is very soothing.
• Try to avoid topical Benadryl as quite a few patients can become allergic to this topical.

Your dermatologist can also prescribe medications to help the itch subside faster. Consult a doctor if the bite is draining yellow drainage, if the surrounding redness is expanding, or if you develop systemic symptoms like fever, body aches, other rashes, etc.
 

             

Summer Sun Protection

It's that time of year when we all head outside any chance we can get.  As an active person myself, I definitely understand the importance of getting outside with the kids and I encourage my patients to do the same.  By getting outside and enjoying the sunshine you are encouraging your family to maintain an active lifestyle which can help keep them healthy over the long term.  However, we need to do so safely. 

• Seek shade, wear a wide-brimmed hat like the Coolibar Sun Hat pictured below. It provides protection for your head and shoulders and it's packable, meaning it will maintain its shape even after being stuffed into a pool bag over and over again. There are dozens of styles and colors to choose from.
• Cover up!  Sun protective clothing lines have come a long way in making light weight protective clothing and swim shirts. SwimZip is one of many lines that can help protect your skin while playing at the pool or waterpark.
• Facial Sunscreen is a must.  In order to avoid sun damage to your face and neck, I advise investing in a high quality facial sunscreen to be worn every single day rain or shine.  EltaMD UV Clear is one of my favorites.  

                  

Also, don't forget about the rest of your skin when you will be out 15 minutes or longer. Look for sun blocks with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to protect against UVA and UVB. I like CeraVe sunscreen, the EltaMD products mentioned above, and Aveeno mineral block. These are some of my favorites, but there are many more out there.  SPF 30+ is sufficient for most skin types, but higher SPF protection is recommended for lighter complexions.  Those sunscreens that boast a 100+ SPF factor are usually not much more protective than those mentioned above and not worth the money.  Make sure to apply an appropriate amount of sunscreen, which is a nickel-sized amount to the face alone and a shot-glass sized amount for the rest of the body. Remember to reapply every 60-80 minutes if you are in the water. Stay tuned for my sunscreen recommendations for babies and little ones!