The arrival of spring beckons us back to the great outdoors for adventures with family and friends. It is a great time to get reacquainted with the importance of skin health and being sun-safe. Our local skin cancer experts at SkinCheck have valuable tips for protecting your skin while getting the most out of the warmer weather.
How can skin cancer be prevented?
New Zealand has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Our location, climate and lifestyle put us at high risk, so it's essential to make sun-safe practices a part of our daily routine.
Skin cancer is caused by a range of factors. Some, like your age, complexion, and the number of moles you have, are beyond your control. However, the extent and nature of your exposure to damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays from our harsh sun is largely up to you.
You can take easy steps to protect your skin by using good quality sunscreen and covering up with high ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rated clothing, especially between 10am and 4pm, and whenever the UV index (UVI) exceeds 3. You can find the current UVI on the weather app on your mobile phone, or on the NIWA website, niwa.co.nz.
Which sunscreen is right for me?
Sunscreen can protect your skin from UV damage, but choosing the right one and using it correctly is important to get the benefits. There are four key factors in choosing the right sunscreen for you:
Spectrum
The two main types of harmful UV radiation are UVA and UVB. Choose a sunscreen that protects you from both. These sunscreens are typically labelled 'broad-spectrum' and have both UVA and UVB logos. UVA radiation causes aging effects such as wrinkling, and UVB causes sunburn and skin cancer.
Sun protection factor (SPF)
The SPF rating solely measures protection against UVB rays. An SPF50+ sunscreen blocks more than 98% of harmful UVB and is recommended. Sunscreens with higher SPF can tend to feel thicker.
Ingredients
The two types of sunscreen ingredients are physical or chemical. Physical sunscreens contain zinc or titanium and are best for individuals with sensitive skin (eg eczema or acne) and children. Chemical sunscreens tend to give a better cosmetic result as they become more transparent after application. Individuals without sensitive skin can use either type. Some sunscreens have a combination of physical and chemical ingredients.
Formulation
Sunscreens come in lotion, roll-on or spray formulations. Lotions and roll-ons are easier to apply evenly on your skin and allow for better coverage.
SkinCheck has an excellent selection of sunscreens and testers and our friendly team can help you find the one that's best for you.
Do skin cancers only grow on sun-exposed skin?
Although UV exposure is the most significant modifiable risk factor for developing skin cancers, there are many other important factors that require consideration. Common skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma tend to be found in highly sun-exposed areas such as the face, arms and legs. However, melanomas which are less common but higher risk, can arise in individuals without high UV exposure or on parts of the body that are seldom exposed to the sun.
Who needs regular skin checks?
Having regular skin checks is an important part of managing your overall health. Skin cancers can be cured with less-invasive treatments when detected early.
Individuals with one or more of the following are recommended to have full-body skin checks annually:
You can find our friendly team in our modern clinic, conveniently located at 4 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, with onsite parking and easy access.
Book now for your full skin check and advice on skin cancer prevention ahead of the great Kiwi spring and summer ahead!
SkinCheck
4 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna
(ground floor, southwest entrance)
09 443 6266
reception@skincheck.co.nz
skincheck.co.nz
