{This is a sponsored post for Whole Foods Market}
Several weeks ago, I went in for what I thought was a routine skin exam. Having visited a dermatologist in previous years, I was under the very wrong impression that I was somehow protected from skin cancer because of the melanin in my skin. Two very thorough skin exams and a few biopsies later and the result is that I had 3 benign but atypical moles removed. I feel very blessed that those moles did not develop into cancer, but the potential was real. I’m thankful for a dermatologist that was knowledgeable and proactive in preventing a cancer that can be very devastating.
As we head into the summer season, I thought I’d share my 5 best sun care tips:
1. Wear sunscreen every single day throughout the year. Contrary to what you might have heard or read about sunscreen boasting an SPF of more than 30, my dermatologist says there isn’t much added protection beyond SPF 30. More importantly, look for a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB sun rays. Remember to reapply often (multiply the SPF number by the amount of time it takes you to burn and use that as a guide for reapplication) and during/after swimming. It is also important to note that humidity and sweating can also impact the effectiveness of sunscreen, requiring additional reapplication.
2. Know your risk factors. While anyone who is exposed to the sun is at risk for skin cancer, certain conditions such as a family history of skin cancers, excessive exposure to UV radiation via sunlight or tanning booths, pale skin, and multiple or atypical-looking moles increase the risk. Be sure to speak to your physician if you have questions or concerns about your risk.
3. Get a routine skin exam. I started visiting a dermatologist, who recommends annual to bi-annual skin exams, depending on risk. This is a great time to discuss the signs and symptoms of skin cancer and to learn to be proactive by checking your skin each month for changes.
4. Know the ABCDE’s of skin cancer. According to SkinCancer.org, any of the following skin symptoms should be evaluated by a physician. Asymmetry, Border Irregularity, Color Variation, Diameter larger than the size of a pencil eraser, and Evolution (size, shape, color, elevation, bleeding, itching, scaling, or crusting).
5. Don’t forget to protect your eyes and your scalp. Despite my knowledge and experience as an RN, I still found myself a bit taken aback when my dermatologist pulled out a fine-toothed comb, donned his “x-ray vision goggles” (for lack of a better medical term) and began examining my scalp. Invest in a wide-brimmed hat and dark shades that protect against both UVA and UVB sun rays, since skin cancer can be elusive and occur anywhere, including the scalp and the eyes. If you’re planning on being in the sun for a prolonged period of time (we like to spend all day at our local water park), consider investing in sun protective clothing.
In honor of the upcoming summer season, Whole Foods is having a 4-day sale on sun care products with savings of 30% through May 26th, 2014. I have to admit that the sheer number of sunscreen products available on the market confuses me, and when you add in the concerns about chemical sunscreens and the potential for endocrine disruption, I prefer to stick with physical sunscreens like those sold at Whole Foods. The ingredients you want to look for in physical sunscreens include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed into the skin. The only small downside to physical sunscreens is they often leave a thin white layer on the skin, which isn’t harmful and acts like a mirror, blocking the sun’s rays.
Here are my top picks from Whole Foods Market:
Juice Beauty’s SPF 30 Sport Moisturizer
derma3 Antioxidant Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 Body Lotion
Devita Solar Body Moisturizer
To learn more about how to pick the perfect sunscreen, visit Whole Story, the Whole Foods Blog. You can also follow Whole Foods Market on Twitter and Facebook.
While skin cancer is the most significant risk of sun exposure, wrinkles, rashes, freckles and other skin changes/damage can occur. As we go into the summer season, I hope these sun care tips help protect you from the sun’s damaging rays.
Images: Whole Foods Market
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