Suncreen, Sun Protection and Alarming Rates of Melanoma and Skin Cancer in Adults Under 40

Warmer weather is right around the corner and that means less clothing and extreme sun exposure for most people who want to enjoy outdoor activities during the summer. Prolonged sun exposure is risky and potentially fatal, but taking proper preventative measures can decrease the risk of melanomas and skin cancers dramatically.
Recently, the amount of melanoma and skin cancer rates and cases have increasingly exceeded previous years making skin cancer one of the most common forms of cancer in the United States. (information courtesy of skincancer.org) This is not only from prolonged sunlight exposure, but from indoor tanning exposure as well.

In previous years, as well as previous blog posts, Dr. Obi has presented the topic of sunscreen , sun protection and skin cancer. His hopes are to educate people of every age about the dangers of not only sun exposure, but potentially toxic sunscreen protection that may increase the development of melanomas.

Potentially Harmful Sunscreens

Some sunscreens may aide in the prevention of harmful UV rays, but have been known to cause serious developmental problems in individuals. Some of the sun blocking chemicals that have been known to be harmful are PABA, benzophenones, cinnamates, salicylates, digalloyl trioleate, oxybenzone and avobenzone. Read more about Dr. Obi’s skin cancer study here.

Best Form of Sun Protection

It’s difficult to avoid the sun altogether, especially when many outdoor activities include sun exposure. But there are protective measures that can be taken.

1. Avoid direct sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun as at its harshest.
2. Wear appropriate clothing and head gear that protect your skin and face from exposure.

Be Aware of Your Body

Be sure to check yourself thoroughly for moles or spots that may change in color or size. We encourage you to seek professional assistance when doing so.

Dr. Obi is among the leading Jacksonville plastic surgeons that has helped many patients identify and safely remove harmful melanomas and skin cancers over the years and continues to educate all of his patients on the importance of sun protection and safety.

If you have any questions about sun protection, melanomas or skin cancer, we encourage you to contact Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic and schedule your consult with Dr. Obi.