THE SUN AND OUR SKIN : WHAT YOU MUST KNOW

Many people of color believe the myth that because of our protective melanin, we don't get skin cancer. While it is true that we are far less likely to develop skin cancer than Whites-particularly the nonmelanoma forms of skin cancer- people of color do get skin cancer and when we do, we are more likely to die from this serious disease. Black and Hispanic women who develop skin cancer had a higher rate of advanced disease than did Black and Hispanic men; it's not understood why.

For people of color, skin cancer can be a particular challenge for a number of reasons. The appearance and the location of skin cancer in a woman of color may be very different from the cancers (melanomas) that often affect Whites. Studies have found that melanomas in Blacks most often develop on the extremities-our palms, fingers, soles, toes-areas where a cancerous lesion may be easy to overlook. A common example of how melanoma may appear in skin of color is as a singular dark nail streak on the hands or feet.

To protect yourself, you must first be aware that you are at risk for skin cancer. Another way to protect yourself is to detect skin cancer early. Once every month, examine your skin from head to toe , paying particular attention to your hands, fingers, feet, toes, nails, and mouth, where melanoma-type skin cancers are more likely to appear in people of color. Look for dark brown or black spots in these areas, no matter how small. Pay particular attention to new spots or spots that change. The change can be an increase in size, shape, or color or a raised bump that develops within the spot. A bump on the foot or toe that is sore or does not heal is another tip-off for skin cancer. Be on the lookout for inklike spots or dark streaks along one nail only. Additional risk factors include age and a family history of skin cancer. Finally, wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every day-not just when you go to the beach or on vacation. The sun exposure you receive simply from running daily errands may increase y our risk of skin cancer.

Sun and Sunless Tanning Tips

Here are some tips and techniques for different skin tanning techniques.

SUNBATHING

The best advice for anyone who wishes to gain a skin tan by sunbathing is 'don't do it'. However, if you are determined to sunbathe, then keep the following tips in mind.

• Read up on the dangers of skin cancer.
• Learn about the effects of the sun rays on your skin. The sun's rays can increase the chance of premature ageing, speed up wrinkles, dry out your skin and become a trigger for certain skin disorders like eczema.
• Have a number of short sunbathing sessions, instead of one long session.
• Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
• Wear sunglasses.
• A sunscreen that provides minimal coverage is better than no sunscreen at all.
• Avoid the sun during the hottest times of the day.

BRONZERS

Here are some tips for using bronzing products.

• Exfoliate your skin first.
• Do not apply a bronzer after a bath or shower.
• Apply the bronzer in a circular motion.

SPRAY TANNING BOOTHS

Here are some tips for the use of tanning booths.

• Exfoliate your skin first.
• Moisturize your skin first.
• Wear loose fitting clothing.
• Wipe your skin with a towel after application.
• Protect your eyes and mouth.

TANNING ACCELERATORS AND PILLS

There is no evidence to suggest that tanning accelerators or pills actually work. A lot of people are convinced the possible dangers far outweigh any benefits. Pills, particularly, are considered one of the worst ways in which to get a sun tan. Before taking any pills or accelerators, consider the following tips.

• Consult your doctor on whether the products will have any negative effect on medication you are taking.
• Find out any relevant information about the product you wish to take.
• Ask for a recommendation. Do not choose the cheapest product, as it is may have no effect.
• Be careful in the sun and protect your skin from UV rays.

TANNING LOTIONS

Here are some tips for using a sunless tanning lotion.

• Ask your store attendant for the best sunless tanning lotion. Cheap versions may cause your skin to go yellow.
• Do a skin patch test before applying the lotion to your entire body.
• Exfoliate before using the lotion.
• Moisturize your skin.
• Wear the same thing every time you use the lotion - preferably something dark so that stains will not show.

TANNING BEDS OR LAMPS

Here are some tips for using tanning beds or lamps.

• Protect your eyes and your lips.
• Check with your doctor about the effect of UV light on any medication.
• Moisturize your skin before and after the session.
• Gradually expose the areas that have been covered up.
• Don't over do it and watch the time.

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