The Daily News posted “Protect Your Skin as Summer Heats Up” guest column by Dr. Purvisha Patel.
As we all take a collective breath from the wonderful time that is Memphis in May, and on the heels of National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, this is a good time for everyone to take stock in skin protection as we look forward to a hot and fun summer!
As a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs skin cancer surgeon, I ask everyone to consider what you and your loved ones are doing, or more importantly, not doing to protect the largest organ of your body, your skin. I see the effects of unprotected sun exposure on a daily basis, and while we don’t always think about the potential dangers of the sun, it can be fatal.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. with an estimated 3.5 million cases diagnosed each year. According to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, it develops as an abnormal or uncontrolled growth of mutated cells of skin, typically in the top layer known as the epidermis. Skin cancer may initially appear as a bump or irregular patch on the skin. The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
It’s critical that you protect yourself from harmful and cancer-causing UV rays that the sun radiates. There are two types of UV rays that you should look out for: UVB (ultraviolet B) and UVA (ultraviolet A). Both UVB and UVA increase the risk of skin cancer.
In order to protect your skin, avoid sheer clothing and cover yourself with solid clothing that does not expose your skin.
The best sunscreen to use is a sunscreen lotion that includes zinc oxide and is rated for SPF 30 or higher. Apply every two hours for the best results.
For those who prefer to use tanning beds, you may want to reconsider next time you make an appointment. No matter what you’ve heard, there is no such thing as a “safe” tanning bed. The World Health Organization and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services both listed tanning beds as a “known human carcinogen.”
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, indoor tanning equipment, which includes artificial light sources such as beds, lamps, bulbs, booth, etc., emits UVA and UVB radiation. The amount of radiation produced during indoor tanning is similar to the sun, and in some cases might be stronger. Studies have found a 59 percent increase in the risk of melanoma in those who have been exposed to UV radiation from indoor tanning.
With summer quickly approaching, I encourage you to protect your skin with sunscreen. UV rays are more dangerous than you think. Even a day without sunscreen can cause lasting and adverse effects.
Dr. Purvisha Patel is a board-certified dermatologist, Mohs and cosmetic surgeon, owner of Advanced Dermatology and Skin Cancer Associates and creator of Visha Skincare.