There are types of skin cancer that occur more frequently, but melanoma is the deadliest of all. Furthermore, it is becoming more common, especially in countries like Australia and New Zealand, which have the highest incidence of the disease in the world. The good news is that it can be prevented. Find out which are the most effective prevention methods.
Avoid exposure to strong ultraviolet radiation.
You should look for the shade when the ultraviolet radiation produced by the sun is strongest. This is essential for the prevention of melanoma. The period of the day during which this occurs varies slightly depending on your country’s location in the world. In the United States, the sun should be avoided between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. For Australia and New Zealand, the period is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
You should avoid using tanning beds and lamps. They expose the skin to large amounts of ultraviolet radiation that damages skin cells and increases the risk of skin cancer. You must understand that tanning is actually the skin’s healing response.
Wear protective clothing.
When you go out, you should protect your skin as much as possible. Wear a wide-brimmed hat with a brim of at least 2 inches. A baseball cap can also do the trick. You should wear sunglasses that provide UV protection. Despite the common misconception, melanoma can start in the eyes. You should wear a shirt, preferably with long sleeves. Choose clothes in lighter colors.
Apply sunscreen before going out.
You should use high-quality sunscreen from a reputable brand with SPF 30 or higher. People who are at higher risk of skin cancer should use sunscreen with SPF 50. It is necessary to apply the product on all parts of your body and especially those with greater exposure to the sun such as the face, ears, neck, shoulders and chest. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out and reapply every 2 hours if you swim or sweat a lot.
Get frequent mole checks.
Cancerous skin growths can develop anywhere on the body. They can also develop on existing moles. This is why you should have a dermatologist check your skin regularly. For most people, an annual checkup is sufficient. Those at higher risk may receive more frequent check-ups.
Last but not least, you should learn as much as possible about the symptoms of melanoma and report any worrisome signs to your doctor immediately.