The occurrence of skin cancer is only due to the damage that happens to the skin cells. The damage is usually caused by the oxidative stress that is caused by the free radicals in the body. Oxidation is a process that causes darkening of a substance. For example, the rusting of a metal, or an apple becoming brown are all oxidative occurrences. The oxidation of the cells is a highly detrimental happening, and must be avoided.
When there is exposure to sunlight, the production of Vitamin D3 is boosted. However, this should be done in moderation. Keeping in mind the manifestation of sunburn, one should not stay in the sunlight for an increased duration of time. Oxidation not only leads to the triggering of skin cancer, but also may be the result of the development of skin cancer.
To prevent this from whatever way possible, application of a medically enhanced sunscreen is important. Certain work cultures or lifestyle reasons call for a compulsory exposure to the sunlight. In such a case, sunscreen must be coated on the skin. Dermatologists recommend that not only under direct sunlight, but otherwise as well, the skin cannot escape the indirect attack of the ultraviolet rays. Thus, usage of sunscreen at all times prevents the oxidation of cells and a healthy skin formulation.
To reduce catalysts initiating the oxidative stress, the production of antioxidants in the body is of utmost importance. Detached molecules with missing electrons are known as oxidants. To fill in for their electron, they steal the electron from some other molecule. This leads to a domino effect, henceforth leading to oxidative stress that initiates the growth of skin cancer.
Antioxidants help in the binding of these molecules by donating an extra electron. This prevents them from becoming a free radical and then spiraling down into the free radical mal effects to cause the damages that they do.
Preventing a skin from skin cancer, the choice of a sunscreen is of imperative importance. The sources must be organic and medical, rather than cosmetic in nature. Harsh chemicals and preservatives are a strict no-no, as they are equally harmful for the skin.
People with a fair complexion must use a sunscreen with traces of zinc or titanium oxide in them. The darker shades of a skin can tolerate sunlight for a much longer time in comparison to lighter skin people. Medium shaded people tend to develop a tan in their skin, where fairer shaded people tend to burn in the skin. This is because of the less melanin production in the epidermis layer of the skin.
Being careful of the contents of the products that you use can also prevent skin cancer. Parabens is a commonly used preservative that is added to products meant for topical application. Parabens is carcinogenic by nature and aids the development of cancer. Many skin cancer biopsies have reported the presence of parabens. This ingredient is commonly found in products such as deodorants, antiperspirants, lipsticks, colognes and perfumes.
Thus, parabens and sun damage both equally catalyze the growth of skin cancer amongst people. Be smart, and prevent skin cancer in the ways that are humanly affordable.
The tips to prevent skin cancer include a lot of dietary alterations as well. Again, this is preventive and the best way to go on about living a healthy lifestyle as the application of these routines ensure protection. Eat a lot of fresh fruits and organic vegetables. The intake of oily fish, nuts, green tea and nuts boosts the production of antioxidants, that in turn help in fighting against the free radicals.
To reduce the oxidative stress, a famous routine to prevent skin damage is being taken keenly into practice. It is known as the 5S routine.
SLIP - while stepping out of the sun slip on some clothes that provide the maximum coverage. Now this one is a difficult thing to do, knowing exposure to sun brings along a lot of heat, where being fully clothed can be a little hot and bothering. For this, choose cotton and linen clothes in light colors. Wear them in shades of white, beiges and cool blues to beat the heat. Drink plenty of water in the exhilarating heat to prevent any dehydration from happening.
SLOP – dab on some sunscreen while stepping out of the sun. Remember, it is not the ‘girly’ thing to do, but the wise thing to do. Recommended sunscreens must be higher in SPF and must offer an ongoing protection from the harsh sunrays. Munch on cold salads and juices instead of alcohol and tea/coffee.
SLAP - a hat is the best accessory to sport in the harsh grilling summer. Put on a straw hat and prevent the sunlight from beginning the damage head on. Remember, head is the only place where one cannot dab on sunscreen. Safeguard your head with a hat.
SEEK – seek the shelter of a tree or any shade on can find. Little lifestyle changes can get one to ward off such a major disease. The damage to cells can begin at any point. Remember to safeguard yourself against the mal bought on by the harsh sunlight.
SLIDE - wear sunglasses as much as possible. The basal cell carcinoma and the squamous cell carcinomas occur many times on the lower lid of the eye. The eye exposure to sunlight is thus giving way to an increased number of eyelid cancers. Doing something as simple as sporting shades can prevent a major chunk of this occurrence.
Tags: Cancer, melanoma, Skin, Skin cancer, Skin neoplasm, Sunscreen, Ultraviolet
Doctors