BestBeautyHacks

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month – a time to put the spotlight on the most common form of cancer in the world. As the days start to lengthen and the weather warms up, we often yearn for the sun’s rays. But while a sun-kissed glow may be aesthetically pleasing, it’s crucial to remember that the sun can also be our skin’s deadliest enemy.

Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate, it can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or race. It’s estimated that every day, 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer. And every hour, one person dies from melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. But the good news is, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer.

Are you taking the necessary precautions to protect your skin? Are you aware of the risk factors associated with skin cancer? This month is all about educating ourselves and others about the dangers of skin overexposure and the importance of early detection.

the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) provides insights that can help you protect your skin. The AAD also shares information that can help you find skin cancer. When found early, skin cancer is highly treatable.

What is Melanoma Monday?

On Melanoma Monday, the AAD encourages all Americans to begin a lifelong habit of examining their skin for signs of skin cancer.

The AAD began Melanoma Monday on Monday, May 1, 1995 and has observed it every year since. Melanoma Monday always occurs during Skin Cancer Awareness Month on the first Monday in May. This year, Melanoma Monday is Monday, May 6, 2024.

Key facts to know about melanoma

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. In 2024, it’s estimated that more than 200,340 melanomas will be diagnosed and about 8,290 people will die of melanoma.

That’s why the AAD encourages everyone to begin a lifelong habit of checking their skin by performing skin self-exams. Here’s why these exams are so important:

• Caught early, melanoma is highly treatable.
• Melanoma can develop anywhere on the skin, including skin that’s had plenty of sun exposure and skin that’s usually protected from the sun.
• Melanoma can develop under or around a fingernail or toenail.
• You can find melanoma early by examining your skin for the ABCDEs of melanoma and checking your nails.

Dermatologists encourage everyone to check their skin for any changes or signs of skin cancer on a regular basis so you can find signs early.

Sun protection can reduce your skin cancer risk

Protecting your skin from the sun plays a key role in preventing skin cancer. However, a 2024 AAD survey found that more than 1 in 3 Americans (36%) said they had a sunburn in 2023. This is a significant increase over 2022

The 2024 survey also revealed that Gen Z adults were less likely than adults in other generations to know key facts that can help them protect their skin from the sun. Here are key facts to know:

• When you’re outdoors, protect your skin by seeking shade, wearing sun-protective clothing, and applying sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, water resistance, and an SPF of 30 or higher. The AAD calls this Practicing Safe Sun.
• Sun protection is important every day of the year. You can get sunburned on a cloudy day and during the winter
• You need to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating. It’s a myth that higher SPF sunscreens can be applied less frequently.

To learn how to use shade, clothing, and sunscreen to protect your skin, go to Practice Safe Sun.

For recommendations on sunscreen, go to: https://bestbeautyhacks.com/best-sunscreens-of-2023/

What will you do during Skin Cancer Awareness Month?

Now that you know the facts, what will you do this month to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer and to find skin cancer early when it’s highly treatable?

When you Practice Safe Sun, you can decrease your risk of developing skin cancer and early skin aging.

Developing a lifelong habit of checking your skin for skin cancer can also help you find skin cancer early. To get started with skin exams, some people sign up for an AAD free skin cancer screening. Or you may want to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist for a skin cancer screening.

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Disclaimer

*Disclaimer: This post is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Content provided is for information purposes only.  Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical diagnosis or treatment options. The statements made throughout this blog are not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Before starting any treatment at home consult a health care professional to determine if it’s right for you.