Be Smart With Your Skincare

With skin cancer claiming the lives of thousands of Americans each year, it is important that you do what you can to protect yourself, and to know the warning signs of this devastating illness.

Skin cancer isn't something that any of us really want to think about. Cancer is a terrifying thing, and when it is a type that is genetic based upon your relative's skin, your odds can make you feel frustrated and helpless. However, there are a few things that you can do to prevent skin cancer.

Though obvious, many people neglect the sunblock when it comes to their everyday skincare regime. With SPF being found in more brands of cosmetics, and dermatologists all over the Internet insisting upon the importance of blocking out those UVA/UVB rays, it's a wonder that we are going outside at all! However, the harsh reality is that many people feel as if just a bit of sun exposure won't make a difference in the way that their skin looks and feels. Quite honestly, not only does it impact your outward appearance, but it could be causing internal damage as well.

If you are going to be outdoors a lot, or even if you have sun shining through your car windows on your morning commute, it is important to make a ritual out of including SPF into your skincare routine. Wearing a sunscreen, especially if you have moles or other skin abnormalities that may be especially affected by the sun's harmful rays, will keep you looking younger and keep your body healthier and potentially cancer free.

Another form of prevention is to include a healthy dose of Vitamin D through a healthy diet. Whether this means taking a vitamin supplement or eating foods rich in this great health booster, Vitamin D is a vital defense in the fight against developing skin cancer.

But what if you are afraid that you already have developed skin cancer? What are the symptoms? First, it is important to realize that everyone is at risk. While fair-skinned folk are definitely more susceptible, the color of your skin and hair does not determine whether or not you will develop skin cancer. Everyone can be affected. If you spend a great amount of time in the sun, you have also increased your risks. Finally as mentioned above, genetics and your family history contributes to your likelihood of getting skin cancer.

This disease can occur anywhere on the body. While skin cancer usually chooses areas of the body that are often exposed to the sun, even parts that are covered up can have a cancerous growth. Skin cancer can look like a mole that you haven't had before, or sometimes a pearly pump. It can also metastasize in a mole you've had your entire life, when it begins to change size, color, or shape. It can also be a cluster of small lesions or a sore batch that may bleed and never seems to heal completely.

Outside of the telltale warning signs on your skin, there are not a lot of early symptoms of skin cancer. This is why doctors emphasize the importance of getting your skin checked once a year by a dermatologist, as well as routinely examining your skin on your own. If you do find something that seems abnormal or new, do not delay. Skin cancer can spread rapidly to other parts of the body, and the longer that you procrastinate, the smaller your chances of survival become.

According to the website Lovetoknow.com, there are three basic types of skin cancer,

• Melanoma is the deadliest one form of cancer. It often looks like an irregular mole. It tends to metastasize, or spread, quickly.
• Squamous Cell Cancer often looks like a sore that won't heal. It can metastasize if not caught early.
• Basal Cell Cancer usually appears as a pearly-colored bump or waxy-looking scar. It's not likely to metastasize but can spread and grow, causing serious tissue damage and scarring.

If you feel that you or a loved one may have the early symptoms of this dangerous disease do not let any more time go by. Make an appointment with your doctor today.

Source: www.skincare-news.com