Skin Check and the Latest on Sunscreens
- A full-body skin exam for cancer as part of your yearly physical.
- Monthly skin self-exams
It is important to know your own pattern of moles, freckles and birth marks. Be alert to changes in the number, size, shape, or color of the spots on your skin.
Follow the ABCD rule:
- A (Asymmetry) – one half of a mole or spot does not match the other half.
- B (Border) – the outside edge is irregular, ragged or scalloped, and not smooth.
- C (Color) – the color is not the same all over; there can be shades of black, brown, white, blue or red.
- D (Diameter) – the area is larger than the eraser on the end of a pencil (6mm), or is getting larger.
If planning to be outdoors for more than 20 minutes, one should use sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15, even in cloudy weather. When choosing sunscreen, also look for the words “broad spectrum” on the sunscreen label to make sure it blocks both UVB and UVA rays. Redheads and people with very fair skin and blue or green eyes may want to use a sunscreen with a high SPF protection factor. Reapply often – usually every two hours, but sooner if you’ve been swimming or perspiring heavily.
Babies under 6 months should never be exposed to the sun. Cover their skin and feet protectively. To protect their head and face, choose a wide-brimmed hat or bonnet, and use a stroller with a canopy or hood.
Children need to be active. Activities like playing outdoors are vital to their physical health. As a parent, you can make sun safety just as important. Always apply sunscreen as part of your children’s “getting ready to play” rituals. Encourage shade-friendly activities during peak sun hours.
Teens are under pressure to conform in many ways. Tanning can be one of those expectations. Help your child understand that being tan does not mean being healthy. Teach your teens about self-tanners, keep sunscreen bottle in view, and make sure a bottle is included in their outdoor sports bags.
Remember: You are your children’s role model, so let them see you protecting yourself from the sun.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology
Karmanos Cancer Institute
Cancercare
For information and registration please call Crittenton Hospital Medical Center’s Community Health & Education Department at 248-652-5269 or go to www.crittenton.com/?id=103&SID=1
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