Skin Care in the Sun

Who doesn't want that glorious golden tan? Skin that glimmers with oil - that smells of coconut and tropical islands - Skin that radiates health.

I think it is safe to say the majority of people feel better when they have a tan, it boosts their feeling of wellbeing and gives the impression that we are fit and healthy. However it has become apparent that it is not necessarily the case. While exposure to the sun helps us to manufacture a vital vitamin it can also age the skin prematurely, drying it out and making it thicken and become leather like in appearance. We need to have a regime that includes an appropriate level of protection from the sun and we need to start it early. If you can't go out without that golden glow, try some of the excellent products on the market that give you an instant tan and last for days.

While none of us is immune to the damage from solar radiation, those who live in southern climates are more prone to suffer from the kinds of skin cancer which spending a lot of time in the sun can cause. You don't need to be the kind of person who spends their days on the beach baking to a crisp - anyone who enjoys outdoor activities or who works outside is at risk of developing skin problems. Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous kind of skin cancer and often goes unnoticed. It pays to make yourself aware of what to look for and to monitor your skin closely. Having a monthly check list of what to look for goes a long way in finding any suspicious areas and getting the treated early on. Once developed there are no effective treatments for malignant melanoma, but if caught early the prognosis is good. If you want to begin a routine for yourself and your loved ones then using the ABC's of Melanoma is a good way to start.

A once a month check is recommended. While standing in front of a full length mirror, after a shower, check as follows:

* Front and Back
* Right & Left Side
* Bend your elbow and look carefully at forearms, back ofupper arms and your palms.
* Look at the backs of your legs and feet, space between thetoes and soles of your feet.
* Examine the back of your neck and scalp with a hand-heldmirror. Part your hair and lift.
* Finally, check your back and buttocks using a hand mirror. (these recommendations come from the American Academy of Dermatology)

During this check you use the ABC's and report to your doctor immediately if you notice anything odd or that you aren't comfortable with. Here are the ABC's from the experts at Moores UCSD Cancer Center:-

* A: Asymmetry-Melanoma lesions are typically irregular in shape. Benign, non-cancerous moles are typically round.
* B: Border-Melanoma lesions often have uneven borders. Moles have smooth, even borders.
* C: Color-Melanoma lesions often contain many shades of brown or black. Moles are usually a single shade of brown.
* D: Diameter-Melanoma lesions are often bigger than the size of a pencil eraser. Moles are usually smaller.
* E: Evolution-Represents the history of change in the lesion.

While it has not been shown that avoiding sun exposure prevents or lessens your risk of skin cancer, some experts still assert that it is a good idea to avoid the hours between 10am and 3pm and to wear a high protection sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and clothing that offers a barrier. Research is still being done on the connection between sun exposure and the rising levels of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer.