The Important of Protecting Your Skin as You Age

Written by Timothy Cox, MD, Medical Oncologist, Bronson Cancer Center – Battle Creek

As you begin to age, your skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to damage from the sun. This means the risk of developing skin cancer and precancerous growths increases with age. Learning how to protect and check your skin for signs of skin cancer can help you identify and treat cancer early.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. In fact, more than 3 million Americans are affected each year. The most common cause of skin cancer is ultraviolent (UV) rays from the sun. As you age, UV light can penetrate more deeply, which can make you more vulnerable to skin damage. It is important to protect your skin from these harmful rays all year long, especially during summers in Michigan.

Practice Sun Safety 

Before going outside, take the steps to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.  This will help reduce the risk of developing skin-related cancers like basal cell carcinoma and melanoma.

• Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. Reapply often, no matter how sunny it is. 
• Wear a hat in the sun. This helps protect your face, ears and neck.
• Avoid direct sun exposure during the hottest part of the day. This is typically between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
• Wear light, breathable fabrics. This will keep you cool while avoiding direct sun exposure to your skin.

How to Check for Signs of Skin Cancer

Become familiar with the way your skin looks. This way, you will be able to notice changes that may be a sign of skin cancer. 

Check your skin often. Be on the lookout for skin spots or moles that are changing in size, shape or color. Check the areas of your skin that are exposed to the sun the most, like your scalp, face, lips and ears. Other areas to check are the palms of your hands, soles of your feet, between your toes, and your genital area. Follow the ABCDE rule to know what signs to watch for.

• Asymmetry: Irregular shape
• Border: Blurry or irregularly shaped edges
• Color: More than one color
• Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser (6 millimeters)
• Evolution: Enlarging or changes in shape, color or size

Treating Skin Cancer 

It is important to know the common warning signs of skin cancer and pay attention to your body’s new and unexplained changes. Skin cancer treatment may look differently depending on the type and stage you have developed.

If you suspect cancer, talk with your primary care provider. They can help guide you through necessary testing and refer you to an oncologist. Don't have a primary care provider? Visit bronsonhealth.com/find-a-doc.