Nearly 9,500 Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every day, making it the leading cancer diagnosis nationwide. May is recognized as Skin Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting an important time to educate yourself and others on skin cancer prevention and methods of protection. Summer is around the corner, and it’s time to prepare to protect your skin against the sun’s most harmful rays.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer can develop when skin cells are damaged by ultraviolet (UV) rays from frequent sun exposure and sunburns. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, including artificial sources like sunlamps and tanning beds, can also increase your risk by 69% before age 40. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma are the three major types of skin cancer, with melanoma being the most dangerous because of its ability to spread more rapidly than the others. According to the National Cancer Institute, 100,640 new melanoma cases are estimated for 2024. Skin cancer can appear on any part of the body but is commonly found on skin areas that are exposed to the sun the most, such as the face, neck, arms, and hands. Annual skin check appointments with a dermatologist can help minimize your risk for one of the most preventable cancers.
Skin Protection
Skin is the largest organ in our body, and it offers protection against injury, infections, and sunlight. To lower your risk of skin cancer, you’ll need to learn how to protect your skin from the sun and other artificial UV rays. The sun is most harmful from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, so the easiest way to protect yourself is to avoid outdoor activities during that part of the day. If you need to be in the sun during that time or spend extensive time outside, wear sun-protective clothing, including a hat, sunglasses, and a long-sleeve shirt. Wearing sunscreen daily is another great preventive practice. Even if you don’t plan to be outside, sunscreen is still important in your daily routine as certain UV rays can pass through glass and harm your skin. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, like the ZO® Skin Health sunscreen line, to ensure your skin is protected from both UVA and UVB rays. Taking care of your skin and taking the proper precautions can help prevent the most preventable cancer.
Choosing the Right SPF
Sunscreen options are endless, so how do you choose? Sunscreen is available in both physical (mineral) and chemical options. Physical sunscreens use titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to filter UV rays, and they are often able to provide a broader range of spectrum protection. While chemical sunscreens are more hydrating and often more comfortable, physical sunscreens are more commonly recommended.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises you to choose an SPF of at least 30, which blocks over 96% of the sun’s UVB rays. It is important to remember that a higher number of SPF cannot block 100% of UVB rays. Additionally, since sunscreen breaks down naturally, it’s crucial to reapply every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.
The Aesthetic Center Recommended Sunscreens
Sunscreen + Primer Broad-Spectrum SPF 30
This dual-action sunscreen, with ZOX12® complex, protects against the damaging effects from UVA/UVB and IR-A rays, and from HEV light. It hydrates and doubles as a makeup primer for a smooth matte finish, diminishing skin imperfections. This sunscreen has been awarded the Seal of Recommendation by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
SPF: 30
Type of Protection: Physical
Finish: Matte
Special Feature: Built-in makeup primer
Tinted: Yes
Sheer Fluid Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50
This product is a mineral fluid sunscreen with a natural bare-faced finish for all skin types. It has an antioxidant-rich formula that defends skin against environmental aggressors. It is also fragrance-free.
SPF: 50
Type of Protection: Physical
Finish: Semi-Matte
Special Feature: Sheer and weightless, all-mineral protection
Tinted: No
Broad Spectrum SPF 50
For sensitive and post-procedure skin, this lightweight, mineral sunscreen, with ZOX12 complex, protects against damaging effects from UVA/UVB and IR-A rays, and from HEV light. It has been awarded the Seal of Recommendation by Skin Cancer Foundation.
SPF: 50
Type of Protection: Physical
Finish: Hydrating
Special Feature: Smoothing hydrator
Tinted: No
Sunscreen + Powder Broad-Spectrum SPF 45
This sunscreen is powered by Triple-Spectrum Protection® and exclusive ZO Skin Health antioxidant technology to deliver superior skin defense with a hint of advanced color pigments. It has been named one of the 15 Best Powder Sunscreens by Cosmopolitan and one of The 12 Best Powder Sunscreens, According to Dermatologists by Women’s Health.
SPF: 40
Type of Protection: Physical
Finish: Luminous Matte
Special Feature: Easy, on-the-go SPF reapplication and coverage, and available in shades light, medium, and dark.
Tinted: Yes
Smart Tone Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
This lightweight sunscreen is a self-adjusting tint that complements most skin tones, while providing a healthy, hydrated glow. It features an exclusive antioxidant complex, and it also protects against the aging effects of UVA/UVB, IR-A rays, and HEV light. It has been awarded the Seal of Recommendation by Skin Cancer Foundation.
SPF: 50
Type of Protection: Chemical
Finish: Dewy
Special Feature: Dark spot minimizer with a beachy glow
Tinted: Yes
Gel Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
This clear and unscented gel sunscreen has a complexion-smoothing finish for all skin tones. It has an exclusive antioxidant + plant stem cell complexes that minimize the aging effects of environmental aggressors. It is water and sweat resistant up to 40 minutes, and it is also fragrance-free.
SPF: 50
Type of Protection: Chemical
Finish: Semi-Matte
Special Feature: 100% clear gel with a complexion-smoothing finish
Tinted: No
It’s time to protect your skin! The perfect sunscreen for you is the one you’ll want to wear every day. While some sunscreens may blend better with your skin or have scents you prefer, rest assured that your sunscreen is waiting for you. At The Aesthetic Center, we understand that health and beauty go hand in hand. If you have questions or want to purchase any of the products mentioned above, please stop by The Aesthetic Center (1605 Associates Drive, Suite 102E, Dubuque, IA) to learn more.