One of the most common forms of cancer for years now has been skin cancer. Research has actually shown that approximately 40 to 50% of fair-skinned individuals will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime. Common skin cancer developments include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Luckily, there are several precautions individuals can take to practice skin cancer prevention. Click here to learn more.
Avoid Getting Sunburned
While this is easier said than done, avoiding getting sunburned is one of the best precautions to take to avoid skin cancer from developing. Prolonged exposure to the sun is one of the fastest ways to develop this unfortunate condition. Try to avoid staying out in the sunlight between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm when the sun is at its highest peak. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends always using sunscreen that is at least SPF 15 or higher. Make sure to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or immediately after you have been swimming. However, just wearing sunscreen is not enough for full skin cancer prevention.
Cover Up
Also make sure to cover up during sunny days, especially if you are fair skinned. Light, long sleeve shirts can cover up your arms while not feeling too hot for the summer. Broad-brimmed hats can also help easily cover up your face along with sunglasses. It is especially important to keep any infants covered up, as they are more prone to sun damage.
Avoid Tanning Beds
Tanning, in general, can create skin damage for those who are fair skinned. Continued tanning throughout your lifespan can result in increased risk for skin cancer. Tanning beds use ultraviolet light that can make your skin look a great color, but also do significant damage. Avoid tanning beds at all costs.
See a Dermatologist
The best way to maintain your skin health is to schedule a professional skin exam every year. This is especially important for those with fair skin who experience plenty of exposure to the sun throughout the year. Make sure you report any skin discomforts or concerns during your exam.
Skin Cancer Prevention Help at the St.Louis Laser Liposuction Center
If you are seeking help with skin cancer prevention or believe you are at risk, contact the St. Louis Laser Liposuction Center right away. Our professional staff can discuss the recommended treatments available to you. Call for your free consultation and see how we can help with your skin cancer concerns.
