melanin pigment in your skin (melanocytes). They often resemble moles and can be found on any part of the body. This is the most dangerous form of the most common skin cancers.
Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer where uncontrolled growth arises from the basal cells in the epidermis (outermost skin layer).
Merkel Cell Carcinoma is a rare and very aggressive form of skin cancer. It’s usually because of the virus Merkel cell polyomavirus and develops on sun-exposed body parts of people over 50.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the uncontrolled growth of squamous cells. It usually happens because of long-term UV radiation from the sun and or tanning beds.
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How To Protect Your Skin And Prevent Cancer
As stated before, skin cancer can be prevented. Here are some simple steps to protecting your skin and preventing skin cancer:
- Use sunscreen. Anything Spf 15 or higher and apply an ounce to your body 30 minutes before you leave the house. If you plan to be in the sun all day, make sure to reapply it every 2-4 hours with sunscreen spray or lotion.
- Avoid tanning or excessive tanning and avoid UV tanning beds.
- Make sure you are observing your skin often to notice any abnormalities that may have formed.
- Make sure to see a dermatologist at least once a year for a routine skin checkup
There are other steps to take when protecting your skin such as staying in the shade and covering up with as much clothing as possible (be mindful in warm climates).
Regardless of what you do and how you do it, just make sure it gets done. The key to preventing skin cancer is protecting your skin.
