May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and at Boss Gal, we’re here to empower you to take control of your skin’s health! This month, we’re focusing on educating about skin cancer risk factors, warning signs, and prevention. By learning more about skin cancer, its symptoms, when to seek medical attention, and preventive measures, you’re gaining knowledge and taking a proactive step toward your skin health. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Skin Cancer
The rates of skin cancer are high in the United States, with an estimated one in five Americans developing it during their lifetime. Skin cancer usually originates in the epidermis, the top layer of skin, comprising three kinds of cells: squamous, basal, and melanocytes. Melanocytes produce melanin, which provides the skin with its color and protects it against harmful sun exposure. Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can develop from melanocytes.
Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common types of skin cancer, and about 3.3 million Americans are diagnosed with these cancers each year.
Melanoma is the third most common type of skin cancer, with rates rapidly rising over the last 30 years. The American Cancer Society estimates about 100,640 Americans will be diagnosed with Melanoma in 2024.
Signs and Symptoms
Basal cell carcinoma can occur in people with fair skin as well as those with darker skin types. It is often linked to prolonged exposure to the sun or indoor tanning. Early detection and treatment are crucial, as it has the potential to grow deep and cause damage to the nerves and bones, leading to disfigurement. Typically, it appears as a flesh-colored round growth, a pearl-like bump, or a pinkish skin patch.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer, and it can occur in individuals of all skin tones. It commonly appears on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, arms, neck, chest, and back. It manifests as a firm, red bump, a scaly patch, or a sore that heals and reopens.
Melanoma, the most severe form of skin cancer, is responsible for the highest number of deaths. This type of cancer can originate from an existing mole or manifest as a new dark spot on the skin that appears distinct from the surrounding skin. It is essential to seek medical attention early for prompt diagnosis and treatment. Identifying the ABCDE warning signals of Melanoma can aid in early detection.
Skin Cancer Prevention
Since skin cancer can affect anyone, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing it. With summer right around the corner, it’s essential to understand how sunscreen works, what factors to consider when choosing one, and how to apply it correctly. The best sunscreen is the one that you’ll wear (and reapply!). We have ten different sunscreens, ranging from chemical or physical to tinted or non-tinted, so you are guaranteed to find the perfect one for you!
Sunscreen creates a barrier between your skin and the sun’s harmful rays. It contains specific ingredients that help absorb, reflect, or scatter ultraviolet (UV) radiation, responsible for sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is an acronym used to indicate the level of protection provided by a sunscreen product. The number associated with SPF represents the time it takes for the sun’s UVB rays to redden an unprotected, fair-skinned person to the amount it would take to burn while wearing sunscreen. While chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin to counteract UV rays, physical or mineral sunscreens create a barrier on the skin’s surface to block and deflect the rays.
Sunscreen at Boss Gal
ZO Skin Health Smart Tone Broad Spectrum SPF 50—This chemical SPF provides a bronzed glow and lightweight feel while inhibiting future pigment, reducing redness, and hydrating the skin.
ZO Skin Health Daily Sheer Broad Spectrum SPF 50—A Chemical SPF that is water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, is non-greasy, lightweight, and long-lasting. It also blends seamlessly into all skin tones.
ZO Skin Health Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50—A physical SPF that soothes skin and minimizes inflammation. It is best for sensitive, raw, post-procedure, and acneic skin.
SkinBetter Sheer Broad Spectrum SPF 70 Lotion—This sunscreen has a sheer, matte finish that blends into all skin tones. It is packed with antioxidants and skin-soothing ingredients, providing hydration and barrier support.
SkinBetter Tone Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 75 Lotion—This is a Boss Gal fave because of its tone-adapting and makeup primer properties. It also has buildable coverage with a matte finish.
SkinBetter Tone Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 68 Compact—This product is similar to the Tone Smart Lotion but in a compact form. It makes touch-ups easy while on the go and is perfect for keeping in your purse or workbag.
SkinBetter Sheer Broad Spectrum SPF 56 Stick—This physical SPF is reef-safe, weightless, and transparent, perfect for on-the-go use and children.
*All SkinBetter sunscreens are reef-safe, physical sunscreens.
SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30—If you love multitasking products, this chemical SPF is a moisturizer that also lightens existing pigment on the skin. Its luminous finish gives a perfect lit-from-within look.
SkinCeuticals Clear Daily Soothing UV Defense SPF 50—This sunscreen features a mineral and chemical blend. It helps to reduce redness and smooth skin texture while providing all-day hydration. This is perfect for acneic and rosacea skin.
SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 32 & 35—This physical SPF comes in tinted or non-tinted sunscreen and is oil-free, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free.
Pairing Your Sunscreen with an Antioxidant
Studies have shown that applying an antioxidant before sunscreen can amplify the efficacy of the SPF, addressing damage from the sun and pollutants by neutralizing environmental aggressors before exposure. According to the study, sunscreen only blocks 55% of free radicals produced by UV exposure. Skin damage is statistically reduced when an antioxidant is introduced into the mix. Combining an antioxidant with a broad-spectrum SPF can enhance the effectiveness of sun protection, although the antioxidant itself does not provide direct sun protection.
In conclusion, skin cancer is a serious health concern that affects millions of Americans every year. However, it is preventable and treatable if caught early. You can significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer by practicing sun safety, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade. It’s also crucial to schedule regular skin cancer screenings with your dermatologist, especially if you have a history of skin cancer or notice any suspicious skin spots. We encourage you to take control of your skin’s health by educating yourself and taking proactive steps toward prevention.
We would love to help you pick the perfect antioxidant and sunscreen for your skin this summer! Schedule a Skincare Product Consultation at one of our convenient locations in Clintonville, Grandview, Easton, or Powell today. Your peace of mind is our top priority! We can’t wait to see your face!