fter being covered up during winter and spring, our skins are not prepared for the wonderful light and warmth of the sun and this often results in sunburn. Most of us tend to shed our clothes at the first sight of the sun and although the vitamins we receive from the sun are healthy and should be enjoyed, it's important to use your head when spending time in direct sunlight.
Excessive tanning without the proper protection can cause permanent skin damage. This damage can, in the worse case scenario, develop into skin cancer—a much larger problem than hiding odd-looking tan lines.
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It only takes a single sunburn to more than double your chances of developing skin cancer |  |
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The Dangers of Ultraviolet Rays
The sun sends multiple types of rays. Visible light, which allows us to see and is not dangerous for the skin, is accompanied by invisible radiation called ultraviolet (UV) light. UV rays in great amounts can be hazardous. The ozone layer filters a lot of this UV light, and allows us receive amounts that we can handle, but it is being speculated that the ozone layer isn't as strong as it used to be. A diminished ozone layer may allow more of the dangerous UV radiation to reach us, putting our largest organ in jeopardy.
UVA and UVB Skin Damage
We separate UV light into two types, both of which damage the skin in their own way.
- UVA penetrates deep into the skin and is responsible for making the skin age faster and lose elasticity. Too much UVA exposure ages the skin so it is wrinkly, looks "leathery", and in some cases becomes permanently discolored. This radiation has the same strength all day long and throughout all four seasons.
- UVB can result in a gorgeous, glowing tan. Then again, too much sun too fast, makes your skin red, swollen, and tender—otherwise known as sun burned. And although we tend to think "red today, brown tomorrow", this radiation is far scarier and is closely linked with the development of skin cancer.
How to Detect Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is a growth that develops in the outer layer of skin. Because the tumor is usually clearly visible and resembles a mole, skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer. As a result of early detection, a small minority of those afflicted will actually die of the disease. The key to early detection is vigilance. Be aware of the moles on your body, monitor any changes in size and shape, and report them to you doctor.
This quick guide, the ABC’s (and D) of skin cancer, will help you remember what to look for.
A is for Asymmetry: Look for moles with an irregular shape
B is for Border: Look for moles with and uneven, sharp or undefined border
C is for Color: Look for moles dark or varied in color, especially if it is partly black or blue
D is for Diameter: Look for moles bigger than 6mm in size ( the size of a pencil eraser)
Tips for Safe Tanning
Remember that there is a healthy way to get a natural tan; protect your skin against sun damage with a sunblock that contains both UVA and UVB filters. Of course avoiding direct sunlight when the sun is highest in the sky (12pm-3pm) is also important, but if you can't bring yourself to do that, consider covering up with a cute hat, hot shades and even a light, seasonal cover-up. At the very least, take frequent breaks from the sun by moving to the shade once in a while.
It only takes a single sunburn to more than double your chances of developing skin cancer later in life. Is it really worth the risk?
May is skin cancer awareness month. For more information about this topic visit www.skincancer.org.
By Carolyn Schlicher, May 22, 2009
I can't say enough about avoiding skin cancer--both my parents had it. Unfortunately, I'm old enough that people just didn't put on sunscreen in the summers when I was young, so I've had my share of burns.
The emphasis on UVA rays in recent years I'm sure has helped decrease even more cancers. Thanks again for a great reminder for me to give a quick glance over everything the next time I get in the shower!
By Deidre, Jun 03, 2009
Great article. If you really need a tan, consider self-tanners. They've come a long way since the early days of streaky creams. I like Sevin Nyne brand - yes, the one developed by Lindsay Lohan (!) - because it smells nice and is really easy to work with (it's a spray). I wouldn't use it regularly but if you really want some color it's much better for you than baking in the sun!
By Kristin B, Jun 03, 2009
I'm a big proponent of fake tans over sun tans, too, and like (of course!) Fake Bake spray tanner (www.fakebake.com).
By Kecia P, Jun 04, 2009
Thanks for the article with great reminders. My grandmother had skin cancer and she was always the one sitting in the shade out of the sun. Like Carolyn, I'm old enough to remember the days of baking for hours with baby oil slathered all over my body, so I'm sure I've caused damage in my younger years. Good reminders of what to look for to bring to the doctor's attention. Thanks again.
By Amy E, Jun 06, 2009
I have a hard time not going out and getting a tan. Our culture really has made it that tan is in. And who doesn't think they look better with a little sun on their face? My mom had skin cancer on her nose and it has left a scar from treatment. I try to remember that when I don't feel like putting sunscreen on. Tan or scar?
By Christina Angelacos, Jul 15, 2009
Great article. I am one of those recovering tan-addicts who is now trying to reverse the damage from my years as a sun-obsessed youth. Although modern medicine and technology have helped to combat the cosmetic effects, I am still very worried about the damage that exists beneath the surface. Today I have weaned myself from the sun by slathering on the self-tanning lotion (I LOVE Dove, inexpensive, natural looking, and smells great) and I will not leave the house without SPF 30 on my face, chest and neck. Next on the list, getting a full body screen for any suspicious moles. Glad I know my A,B,C, and Ds!
By Amy L, Jul 17, 2009
Wonderful article. Nope ot worth the risk!