3 Crucial Tips for Protecting Your Skin During National Skin Cancer Awareness Month

EDGE READ TIME: 3 MIN.

According to the National Cancer Institute, there are more than 2 million new cases of skin cancer annually and growing every year. The summer months bring an increased risk for sun exposure and long-term sun damage. May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month and a great time to consider some crucial tips to keep your skin healthy this summer and prevent the formation of skin cancer.

"Skin cancer can happen to anyone, but those who spend a lot of time outdoors in the sun or use tanning beds are at the highest risk," explains Katherine Goldman, celebrity esthetician/waxologist and owner of Stript Wax Bar. "Daily steps can be taken to prevent cancer from forming and even improve skin that has already been damaged by the harsh sun."

Although you may hear more about other types of cancer, it's actually skin cancer that is by far the most common form of cancer, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Here are three crucial tips to keep in mind for helping to protect your skin this summer:

  • Avoid Tanning Beds. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, research shows that using a tanning bed increases your risk of getting skin cancer by 75 percent. The Surgeon General has stated that 400,000 cases of skin cancer may be related to indoor tanning in the United States annually. To get a tanned look without the health risks, opt for a spray tan. Stript Wax Bar offers a spray tan option that keeps people golden brown while avoiding sun damage risks.

  • Even Pigmentation and Prevent Damage. Consider a pigment lightening serum to even out uneven pigmentation and brown spots caused by aging and sun damage. The serum, infused with Vitamin C and E, fights free radical damage to minimize the appearance of aging. Try Alchimie Forever's Pigment Lightening Serum. Help reduce the risks of getting spots by using sunscreen, wearing a hat, seeking shade during the sunniest part of the day and getting regular facials.

  • Fight Damage Daily. Defense creams, such as Alchimie Forever's Daily Defense Cream SPF23, protects against UVA and UVB rays, has antioxidant and anti-aging effects that help prevent sunburns. Recommended use is twice daily and works perfectly under make-up.

    "The best thing you can do for your skin is be diligent and defensive," affirms Katherine Goldman. "Your skin deserves the best treatment. Be sure to visit a specialist regularly for maintenance and make wearing sunblock a daily habit."

    For more information on skin health, visit
    National Cancer Institute. Skin Cancer.
    http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/skin

    American Academy of Dermatology. Skin Cancer: Tips for Preventing and Finding. http://www.aad.org/dermatology-a-to-z/diseases-and-treatments/q---t/skin-cancer/tips

    Skin Cancer Foundation. Skin Cancer Awareness Month Reminder. http://www.skincancer.org/media-and-press/Press-Release-2011/skin-cancer-awareness-month-reminder


    by EDGE

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