May is Melanoma Awareness Month: Sun, Sunscreen, and Skin

As fashion changed from the late 1800’s to early 1900’s, so too did perspectives about sun and tanning. Protective parasols and large hats gave way to baby oil, sunny climes, and the search for that perfect tan. Today, however, we are more aware of the risks associated with tanning with over 80,000 Canadians diagnosed with skin cancer each year.

Common tanning-related misconceptions

1. A base tan is needed.
2. Tanning is a good source of Vitamin D.
3. Individuals with darker skin need not use sunscreen.
4. Tanning beds are the only safe way to achieve a tan.
5. Only UVB rays are dangerous.
6. Tanning without an initial burn is safe.

A Bit of the Science

• Exposing one’s skin to UV rays (sun tanning) creates damage that, over time, can range from premature wrinkling to skin cancer.
• The skin is made up on melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) that add color to the skin upon exposure to UV rays. More sun = more melanin = darker tan.
• Melanocytes are vulnerable to UVA radiation and do not regenerate. Once damaged or destroyed, the body has no ability to repair or replace them.
• Fewer melanocytes = less sun protection.

Skin Protection

Be UV-Savvy:

• Avoid midday sun.
• Check-in on the UV index to avoid going out when numbers are high.
• Wear a hat.
• Seek out shade whenever possible.
• Cover up or wear protective clothing.
• Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps.
• Use sunscreen: Broad-spectrum and minimum 25 SPF are best.
• Early detection: Regularly check your entire body for abnormalities.
  • Watch for moles and marks that are:
  • Asymmetrical
  • Evolving or changing over time
  • Have uneven borders, multiple colours, and

Sunscreen Tips

• Do not skimp on the sunscreen! It should leave a film when initially applied.
• Apply early. Sunscreen offers the most protection when you apply it 30 minutes before sun exposure.
• Reapply regularly. Recommendations suggest reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours or sooner if you have been swimming or sweating heavily.

My suggestions

• My preference is a product that contains as few chemicals as possible.
• My top-selling sunscreen is the Sport Shield SPF 45 = moisturizer and along with UV protection, your skin will be replenished with vitamins and antioxidants, as well as anti-aging ingredients.
• Sweat and water-resistant.

• OR…

Dermavidual Day Creams SPF 50, SPF 30, and SPF 15

• packed with high-quality and natural skin care ingredients along with
• highly dosed UV filters.
• especially smart for those with sensitive skin.

Natural Defense SPF 25

• A combination of antioxidant moisturizer and sun protection.
• contains a unique blend of rich botanicals and plant-based sun protectors.

ClearChoice Sun Shield SPF 30

• A lightly tinted cream that is recommended for oily/acne skin types, as well as rosacea.
• Besides protection, it helps control future breakouts and overactive sebaceous glands.

Reflect SPF 45

• Get a hint of tint with your sun protection.
• It conceals blemishes, dark circles, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone while…
• … nourishing, restoring and protecting your skin.

Reishi Mushroom Shield SPF 45

• A combination of sunblock and lightweight moisturizer great for daily use.
• Contains organic plant stem-cell mushrooms and micronized zinc will protect you from the sun’s rays while…
• …reducing redness and inflammation and recovering your skin’s immunity.

Questions, Product orders

I carry all sunscreens listed above and would be happy to answer your questions and/or advise you on a product best-suited for you. You can book a free 15-min phone call or send me an email. Thank you!

Resources:

• “Skin Protection – A Necessity in the Modern Day.” Dermaviduals. Accessed May 5, 2021.
• Skin Cancer Foundation. Accessed May 5, 2021.
• 7 Common Tanning and Sun Exposure Myths, Busted. Accessed May 5, 2021.
• Strides for Melanoma 21. Accessed May 5, 2021.