We can all easily recognize the bronzed skin of a beach beauty that’s just returned from a tropical vacation. But while a tan might look good temporarily, its long term dangers greatly out weight any benefit. And an important question to ask ourselves is "Am I able to identify potential warning signs and hazards after exposure?". In a brief explanation, I’ll teach you a few tricks and sum up what it is that you need to look for, and be aware of.
As a quick reference, you should first familiarize yourself with the A,B,C,D & E’s of skin cancer. “What’s that?” you ask? As moles change after exposure (and sometimes even no exposure) to UV rays, we can use a quick tool to identify potential hazards in our skin’s natural markings. Here is what to be aware of when checking your moles:
A- Asymmetry: If you were to draw a line through the center of the mole the two halves would not match.
B- Border: Early melanoma usually displays an uneven border. The edges may be scalloped or notched.
C- Color: Having a variety of colors within one mole.
D- Diameter: Melanoma are usually larger than the tip of a pencil eraser. (1/4 in or 6mm). They can, however, be smaller.
E- Evolution: Any change to the color, size, or border can be a sign of melanoma. You should also be aware of any itching, bleeding, or crusting as these may be signs of danger.
As a precaution, try to wear your sunscreen
every single day. Even if you aren’t going to be outdoors or in the sun for prolonged periods of time, this is highly important. We rack in a surprisingly large amount of exposure during the day by walking to our cars, sitting in traffic, and working under fluorescent lights (yes, they also give off UV rays!). The most common areas for melanomas to develop are on the tops of the ears, the nose, tops of the feet, back of the neck, scalp, face, lips, neck, chest, arms and even areas that are not regularly exposed to the sun.
I highly recommend wearing your SPF, getting skin checks every six months, and getting into a dermatologist immediately if you have any of the above warning signs. Melanoma is highly treatable and curable when caught in the early stages, so avoidance is never in your favor. If you’re still not willing to give up your glow, try a sunless tanner, or spray tans. I use these methods exclusively and am always satisfied with my tan, and more importantly, healthy complexion. It may also help to keep in mind that UV exposure and tanning attributes to nearly 80% of skin's aging! Try and use these simple additions and I'm sure you won't regret it.
For more information on melanoma, and skin health visit
SkinCancer.org .
XO, Annabelle
