Skin Cancer Warning from Dancing Star
Protecting Your Skin: The Basics
Dancing with the Stars judge Witney Carson is sounding the alarm on skin cancer, a disease that has affected her personally. Carson recently spoke out about the importance of skin checks. An NYU Langone dermatologist is also weighing in on the issue.
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Carson's concerns are rooted in her own experiences and observations. She has seen friends and family members affected by skin cancer. As a result, she's urging women to take proactive steps to protect themselves. Dr. Anna Shainhouse, a dermatologist at NYU Langone, is supporting Carson's efforts by sharing expert advice.
Is Your Sunscreen Really Working?
Regular skin checks are crucial in detecting skin cancer early. Dr. Shainhouse recommends getting checked annually, or more often if you have a history of skin cancer or other risk factors. She also stresses that sunscreen is a vital tool in preventing skin cancer, but it's often used as a last line of defense rather than a primary preventive measure.
Sunscreen should be applied daily, even on cloudy days, and reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Dr. Shainhouse notes that many people don't use enough sunscreen, and they often don't apply it frequently enough. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 is recommended.
Not all sunscreens are created equal. Dr. Shainhouse advises looking for products that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. She also warns that some chemicals in sunscreens can be irritating to the skin, so it's essential to choose a product that works for your skin type.
Frequently Asked Questions
The consequences of not taking skin cancer prevention seriously can be severe. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, and it can be deadly if not detected and treated early. By being proactive and taking steps to protect your skin, you can significantly reduce your risk.
Q: How often should I get a skin check? A: Annually, or more often if you have a history of skin cancer or other risk factors. Q: What SPF sunscreen should I use? A: At least SPF 30, and look for broad-spectrum protection. Q: Can I still get skin cancer if I use sunscreen? A: Yes, but using sunscreen significantly reduces your risk. Regular skin checks are still essential.