We’re just a couple of weeks away from the official beginning of summer! As a result, Canadians from all over this great nation are preparing to expose their skin to the sun a lot more often. It goes without saying that with warmth and sunshine come shorts, skirts, t-shirts and tank tops. It’s just the natural order of things. And it’s fun!
However, there is certainly nothing fun about developing melanoma – a deadly skin cancer that is often caused by prolonged exposure to the sun. Melanoma is generally detected through the appearance of moles on the skin. Although not all moles are cancerous, it’s important to have them checked by a dermatologist. This is especially true if you notice changes in their shape and colour.
How does sun exposure affects the risk of melanoma?
“Our skin gets its colour because melanocytes – specialised cells found in our skin – produce a dark pigment called melanin,” explains Ed Yong of Cancer Research UK, “When our skin is exposed to sunlight, these cells make more melanin and our skin darkens and tans. Moles (or to give them their medical name, ‘nevi’) are concentrated clumps of melanocytes, which is why they look dark in colour.”
It’s important for us to reiterate that the presence of moles isn’t an automatic sign of skin cancer. However, the more moles one has, the higher his/her risk is of developing melanoma. Yong notes that there are other factors, related to sun exposure, than can increase a person’s risk of melanoma. They include fair skin that burns easily and a history of sunburn.
Are there genetic traits that make a person more susceptible to developing skin cancer?
There are. They include red or fair hair, light-coloured eyes and a personal or family history of skin cancer. “People with fair skin have a higher risk of melanoma because they are more likely to burn in the sun and accrue the sort of DNA damage that can turn a healthy cell into a cancerous one,” Yong explains.
On MedicineNet.com, Dr. Gary W. Cole adds that moles are more common in people who are prone to having freckles. “Freckles are flat spots that are tan, slightly reddish, or light-brown and typically appear during the sunny months,” he informs, “They are most often found in people with light complexions.”
What is the best way to suppress the appearance of moles?
Avoiding the sun and using sunscreen are highly recommended. This is especially vital for those who have fair skin and moles already present on their bodies. Dr. Cole points out that moles can occur in people of all races, skin tones and skin types. Adults can develop new moles into their 30s, but the number of moles usually peaks by the age of 35.
Why not take some preventative measures so that you can avoid the onset of moles this summer? All June long, Aurora Skin & Vein is offering amazing savings on Vivier skin care and sunscreen products. Stay protected with the ultimate summer duo! When you purchase any Vivier Vitamin C serum, you will receive a FREE Vivier Sunscreen. This special ends June 30th.
For more information, please don’t hesitate to call Aurora Skin & Vein at 403-358-5818. You may also fill out the form on our Contact Us page!