How to Guard Your Skin Against Harsh Sun Rays?

by Kristen White Blogger

Cancer of the skin usually develops when the skin is exposed to the sun. Avoiding or limiting your exposure to the sun and its UV radiation, is, therefore, a great way to lower your chances of developing abnormal skin cells.

Skin cancer often develops in areas where the skin is exposed to the sun, including the lips, scalp, arms, hands, neck, ears, and face. It can also grow on the legs (especially in ladies), palms and soles. But sometimes, skin cancer can still develop even when you are not exposed to sunlight. Skin cancer results from mutations or errors that happen in the DNA of skin cells. When this happens, the cells multiply and form a tumour of cancer cells. Depending on where cancer develops, it may be referred to as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the skin, and non-melanoma skin cancer.

Signs of skin cancer

take note of:

Any growths or moles
Growths or moles that have grown
Lesions that itch, change, bleed or haven’t healed
Growths or moles that have changed significantly in any way

Skin cancer is often characterised by abnormal brown or pink spot, mole, or patch. Swollen lymph nodes can also be a cancer sign. It’s important to note that not all skin cancer have the same look. If you notice any changes you can bok an appointment with a doctor who does skin checks at Coolangatta Medical Centre next to Tweed Heads or any other available doctor if you notice:

New swelling or redness outside the border of a mole

A sore that doesn’t heal

A unique mark on the body

Scaliness, oozing or bleeding in a mole

Pain, tenderness or itching in a mole

How to identify melanoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Doctors may use the ABCDE method to spot melanoma, and is as follows:

Asymmetry (A) – if the two parts of a mole aren’t equal, it could be an indication of melanoma

Border (B) – if the borders are uneven, notched, or have scalloped edges.

Colour (C) – different shades, like brown, tan, or black to blue, red or white, could be melanoma.

Diameter (D) – if the mole is large than the eraser or a pencil (like 6mm),

Evolving (E) – if the mole begins to evolve or change, it can be a warning sign.

The evolution may include colour, shape, or elevation from the skin. The mole may begin to crust, itch, or bleed.

What to do

It is always recommended that you keep up with your medical checkups and cancer screening. But if you notice any of the above signs, then you should call your doctor immediately. If you are worried about the cost, you can go for a skin cancer check bulk bill in Gold Coast for pension and concessiona and DVA card holders and children under 16 for better deals.

Conclusion

UV exposure, personal or family history, general health, and skin type are all risk factors for skin cancer. But since its unpredictable, it's a good idea to get regular skin checks.