Skin Cancer Awareness Burlingame

As the weather starts to warm up, many of us are eager to spend more time outdoors soaking up the sun. While we all love to enjoy the beautiful California weather, it’s so important to remember the potential dangers of sun exposure, particularly when it comes to skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with over 5 million cases diagnosed each year. With May being Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it’s a perfect time to educate yourself on skin cancer prevention and protection.

Here at Skinlastiq, we believe in promoting healthy skin practices and skin cancer prevention. Our team of experts have put together a guide to help you understand what skin cancer is, how to identify it, and what steps you can take to prevent it.

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells that can develop anywhere on the body. It is caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin, which can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. The three main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of all skin cancer cases. It often appears as a raised, pearly bump or a pinkish patch of skin, and is most commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, and arms.

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 16% of all skin cancer cases. It often appears as a red, scaly patch or a wart-like growth on the skin, and is most commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, and hands.

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, accounting for about 4% of all skin cancer cases. It often appears as a dark, irregularly shaped mole or a new spot on the skin, and can develop anywhere on the body, including areas that are not exposed to the sun.

How to Identify Skin Cancer

Identifying skin cancer can be difficult, as it can often look like a harmless mole or spot on the skin. However, there are a few signs to watch out for when examining your skin:

• A new spot on the skin that doesn’t go away after a few weeks
• A mole or spot that changes in size, shape, or color
• A sore or spot that doesn’t heal after a few weeks
• A spot that is itchy, painful, or bleeds easily

If you notice any of these signs on your skin, it’s important to see a dermatologist right away. They can examine your skin and determine if any further testing or treatment is necessary.

Preventing Skin Cancer

While skin cancer can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, it is also one of the most preventable types of cancer. Here are a few steps you can take to protect your skin from sun damage and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:

1. Wear Sunscreen: Sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and apply it liberally to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating.
2. Seek Shade: When possible, seek shade during the sun’s peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you’re going to be outside for an extended period of time, consider bringing an umbrella or wearing protective clothing like a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved shirt.
3. Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. If you want to achieve a sun-kissed glow, consider using self-tanning products instead.
4. Check Your Skin Regularly: Perform regular skin self-exams to check for any new or changing moles or spots on your skin. If you notice any changes, make an appointment with a dermatologist to get it checked out.
5. Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
6. Be Extra Cautious in High Altitudes: UV rays are more intense at higher altitudes, so be extra cautious when spending time in mountainous regions or at higher elevations.

In addition to these preventative measures, there are also a few lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:

• Quit smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, so if you smoke, consider quitting.
• Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help protect your skin from sun damage and reduce your risk of skin cancer.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin healthy and hydrated, making it less susceptible to damage from the sun.

We also offer a variety of treatments that can help protect and rejuvenate your skin. Here are a few of our most popular services:

1. Skin Rejuvenation Treatments: Our skin rejuvenation treatments can help reverse the signs of sun damage and aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. We offer a variety of treatments including chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser skin resurfacing.
2. Skincare Products: We carry a variety of medical-grade skincare products that can help protect and nourish your skin. Our skincare experts can help you choose the best products for your specific needs.

Skin cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, but it is also one of the most preventable types of cancer. By following these tips and taking proactive steps to protect your skin from the sun, you can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer and maintain healthy, beautiful skin. If you have any questions about skin cancer prevention or protection, or if you’d like to schedule a skincare treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact Skinlastiq Medical Laser Cosmetic Spa in Burlingame, CA.