​It’s Almost Summer. Time to Level Up Your Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy.

I love our sunny San Diego days, but I don’t like what the sun can do to our skin. Aside from the wrinkles, discoloration, and rough texture that can plague the complexion after prolonged exposure to UV rays, there’s the very serious matter of skin cancer. 

Did you know that it is the most common type of cancer in the United States? According Wto the American Cancer Society, approximately 5.4 million cases of basal and squamous cell skin cancer are diagnosed each year, along with about 97,610 cases of melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. As we get ready to spend more time outdoors this season, it’s important to keep your skin protected.

Understand the Importance of Skin Cancer Prevention

In the battle against skin cancer, knowledge is your greatest armor. Understanding the risks and taking proactive measures can save lives. Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. Start by familiarizing yourself with the different types of skin cancer and their warning signs. Regularly examine your skin for any changes or irregularities, such as new moles, growths, or alterations in existing moles. This American Cancer Society website is a great place to ramp up your skin cancer expertise.

Embrace Sun-Protective Habits

1. Seek Shade: Stay out of the sun during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the rays are the strongest.
2. Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. You can even find fashionable hats and apparel made from UV-protectant fabric.
3. Apply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Look for products with a minimum SPF of 30 and coverage that protects you from UVA and UVB rays. Don’t forget to apply it generously to all exposed areas, including your face, neck, hands, and ears. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. I like these sunscreens for the face and body if you’ll be on the go this summer spending a lot of time outdoors.
4. Practice Safe Tanning: Embrace the beauty of your natural skin tone and avoid tanning beds or sunlamps. These artificial sources of UV radiation can significantly increase your risk of skin cancer. Still want sun-kissed skin this summer? Our spray tan services will give you a gorgeous glow safely!

Nourish Your Skin with Effective Products

1. Daily Cleansing: Begin and end each day with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and maintain a healthy complexion. This Creamy Cleanser uses nourishing oils to cleanse and hydrate the skin.
2. Hydration and Protection: Hydrating your skin is vital for maintaining its elasticity and defense against environmental damage. The Hydrator Plus Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 combines sunscreen with antioxidants that moisturize while helping protect your skin from free radical damage that can be caused by UV rays.
3. Targeted Treatments: For added protection, incorporate targeted treatments into your skincare routine. Look for products with ingredients like vitamin C, green tea extract, or niacinamide, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.The estheticians at Firefly recommend C&E Advanced as well as Daily Defense Mist.

I’m a big believer in skin cancer prevention, which is why we carry a wide range of sunscreen products at Firefly. Shop online, or come in for a consultation to find the right products for you!