Have any new lumpy bumpies, a freckle that doesn’t look right, or a spot that keeps peeling? If so, it might be time for your yearly skin check. With my active outdoor lifestyle and exposure to UV rays, I make it a point to see my dermatologist every year. And if your dermatologist ever needs to remove a spot, we have a wonderful laser that can diminish the appearance of the scar.

With July being UV Awareness Month, now is a great time to highlight the increasing rates of skin cancer and the effective treatments and products available to combat this trend. With skin cancer cases on the rise, it is vital to remain informed and proactive about skin health.

Understanding the Rise in Skin Cancer

Skin cancer rates are alarmingly increasing globally, driven by factors such as heightened UV exposure and depletion of the ozone layer.¹ The World Health Organization reports that one in every three cancers diagnosed worldwide is skin cancer, underscoring the urgency of preventive measures and effective treatments.²

Innovative Treatments for Skin Health

• Pixel Perfect Erbium Laser: Known for its ability to treat actinic keratosis, a pre-cancerous skin condition, the Pixel Perfect Erbium laser effectively removes these lesions, significantly reducing the risk of progression to skin cancer.
• Alma IPL Photofacial: Using intense pulsed light, the Alma IPL photofacial targets sun-damaged skin, reducing spots, redness, and other UV-induced changes. This treatment not only rejuvenates the skin but also offers protective benefits against further UV damage.

Powerful Products to Prevent Skin Damage

• Vitamin C Serums: Serums such as Revision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30% and SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic with 15% L-Ascorbic Acid are powerful antioxidants, known to protect the skin by neutralizing free radicals. These products help in safeguarding skin from oxidative stress, which contributes to skin cancer risk.
• Sunscreen Powerhouses: Blocking UV radiation is the most effective skin cancer prevention strategy. Products such as EltaMD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum SPF 47 offer broad-spectrum protection, ensuring comprehensive defense against harmful rays. Bella’s new brush-on powder SPF provides a convenient reapplication option, keeping your skin guarded throughout the day.

Additional Protective Measures

• Blue Blocker Cell Phone Film: With the increase in screen time, blue light exposure is another rising concern. Using a blue blocker cell phone film can reduce blue light penetration, minimizing potential skin damage.

This July, during UV Awareness Month, let’s focus on reducing skin cancer risks by using advanced treatments such as Pixel Perfect Erbium and Alma IPL photofacial, and by incorporating protective products such as vitamin C serums, EltaMD SPF Pure, and Bella’s SPF powder. Prioritizing skin protection and staying informed can lead to healthier, cancer-free skin.

Remember, blocking UV is the best protection against skin cancer. Stay informed, stay protected, and make July a month of awareness and action.

References

¹Leiter, U., & Garbe, C. (2008). Epidemiology of melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer – the role of sunlight. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 624, 89-103.

²World Health Organization. (2019). Skin Cancers. Retrieved from [WHO website] (https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ultraviolet-(uv)-radiation)