Dr. Janet Maldonado examines a patient's skin.
Skin cancer is on the rise for all age groups, and melanoma — the deadliest form of skin cancer — is increasing in people over 65. Because you accumulate sun damage throughout your life, even in later years, good habits are important at every age. Being smart about sun protection will help you stay safe while enjoying the summer.
Tips for Skin Safety
Sunscreen: Read the fine print – Sunscreen should contain at least 30 SPF (sunburn protection factor), which measures UVB protection. But because both UVA and UVB protection are important, also look for the specific ingredients zinc oxide, avobenzone or Mexoryl, which add protection against UVA rays. Whereas UVB gives us the sunburn, UVA rays are associated with sun damage, sun spots, wrinkles and increased risk of melanoma. Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen every day, whether cloudy or sunny.
Accessorize – Sunscreen is only one part of being sun smart. Wear a wide-brim hat and seek shade during the peak sun hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you have a history of skin cancer in your family, you may consider sun protective clothing or adding SPF detergent to the wash.
Monitor your moles – When examining your own skin, look for any non-healing sore or bump of any color, a changing mole or a new mole that is irregular in shape or color.
Visit your dermatologist annually – As it is difficult to check your entire skin yourself, the American Cancer Society recommends a once-a-year visit to the dermatologist, starting at age 20.
Take extra precaution on vacation – People are traveling more, and as a result, get sun exposure in places where the sun is more intense. Remember to lather on broad-protection sunscreen and to re-apply during skiing, golfing or while on or in the water.
Janet Maldonado, M.D., a dermatologist at Peninsula Dermatology in Burlingame and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at University of California San Francisco, contributed to this blog post.
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