May is here and summer is right around the corner. Being outside again is super exciting, and to get back into the swing of things. May is also Skin Cancer awareness month. Skin cancer is not as uncommon as you think. Skin cancer hits thousands of people a year. Skin cancer is America's most common cancer. It is also the most preventive cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the 5 year survival rate for melanoma cancer is 99 percent, when detected early. The Skin cancer Foundation also states, that more than 9,500 are diagnosed with skin cancer ever day in the U.S. Under going treatment such as; radiation or chemotherapy, is crucial to take care of your skin and protect it from the sun when you are outside. Skin cancer is treatable, especially when detected early. However, it can spread through the rest of the skin and your body fast.

Skin cancer Awareness

Skin cancer is the overabundance of cells in the epidermis. This is caused by unrepaired DNA damage that creates mutations in the skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. In addition to that, more than 2 people die from skin cancer every hour. With this in mind, this is the incentive to take care of your skin and take care of yourself if you have skin cancer. There are actions you can take to prevent and take care of your skin while undergoing treatment.

Ways to protect the skin

There are many ways to protect your skin from skin cancer. First, protect your skin from the sun's UV rays. The sun is the main culprit to many skin problems such as skin cancer, hyperpigmentation, sunburns, etc. Getting sunburns often around the year increases your chances of skin cancer by double. It is best to protect your skin under the sun with SPF handy. Your SPF should be at level 15 or higher to give your skin the protection that it needs. That is the first step to your skincare routine before stepping outside.

It is also great to keep your SPF handy in your bag when you have to be out in the sun. You should apply it every few hours. If you have sensitive skin, you can wear protective gear, such as beach hats and sunglasses to give your skin further protection. This summer, SPF should always be on your mind for daily protection. The UV rays during the summer are not forgiving. You must protect your skin.

When you can, it best to seek the shade when you are out for long periods. The shade will help block the sun's UV rays from your skin. Using the shade as protection is the perfect place to apply more SPF when needed. This is important for your skincare routine. Beach days are fun but be sure to bring that beach umbrella with you when you are out with the kids.

It is best to get regular check-ups with your dermatologist. If you see something abnormal on your skin, say something and make an appointment with your dermatologist promptly. Seeing a professional regularly can lower your chances of catching any signs of skin cancer early.

The Dangers of UV rays on the Skin

UV rays either from the sun or tanning beds can cause sunburn which can lead to skin cancer in the future. Overexposure to the sun can cause premature aging in the skin which leads to wrinkles. Wrinkles are a clear indicator of dry dehydrated skin that will have a hard time protecting you. UV rays can burn or cause long-term damage to your epidermis. Your skin is your body's first line of defense, you must take care of it. Your skin DNA cells won't have time to repair themselves or recover when it's overexposed to the sun. Imagine your skin cells burned alive like a plant that is getting too much sun, it will wither away.

Why SPF is so important?

During the warmer months, your skin will need the protection. SPF should be in your daily skincare routine. SPF is designed to protect your skin from UV ray damage that can cause numerous problems to your skin. SPF protects your skin from wrinkles, dry skin, and decreases your chances of sunburn which can lead to skin cancer. Sunburn may sound like a normal summer occurrence, but it does serious damage to your skin. This is crucial when you tend to burn easily in the summer.

UV rays are dangerous because it makes up 95 percent of the light that reaches our skin daily. SPF acts as a barrier from the sun to prevent your skin from absorbing or reflecting light. It is not wise to go in the sun without it

The key here is to be mindful of your skin this summer. Skin cancer is a scary thing, so it is best to keep an eye on your skin in case you see any changes. See a dermatologist yearly to get a professional eye on your skin. If you already have skin cancer, please wear protective gear like hats, sunglasses, or an umbrella on extreme temperatures. The sun is not forgiving. Here are some of our SPF favorites!

SkinCeutricals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50

This is an all-purpose sunscreen that provides UVA/UVB ray protection. It is a lightweight product that won't clog your pores.

EltaMD UV Restore Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 Tinted

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

Revision Skincare Intellishade Matte SPF 45

MD Forte Sheer Physical Sunscreen SPF 50+

SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 35 Sunscreen

During skin cancer awareness, be mindful of your skin under the sun. Don't forget your SPF before you go outside. During this month, make an appointment to get regular checkups with your dermatologist every year. If you see something odd about your skin, say something and see your doctor soon. It is always best to be safe than sorry when it comes to your skin and your health. You never know, you may catch skin cancer early. Take care of your skin and it will take care of you.