Staying Sun-Safe During Melanoma Awareness Month
May is Melanoma Awareness Month! As we soak up the sun in beautiful Sydney, it’s crucial to highlight the importance of skin health, especially in preventing and detecting melanoma early.
At Skin Clinic Blyss, we are dedicated to educating our community about effective skin care practices. Let’s stay sun-safe.
Understanding Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body if not caught early. According to Cancer Council Australia, it is the third most common cancer in both Australian men and women, with the nation recording some of the highest rates globally. This is attributed to our strong UV exposure and outdoor lifestyle.
What Is Melanoma Awareness Month?
Every May, Melanoma Awareness Month aims to educate the public about the risks of skin cancer. This period is key for promoting preventive measures, early detection, and timely treatment. It’s a reminder for everyone to check their skin for changes and protect against harmful UV rays.
The “Game On Mole” Initiative
“Game On Mole” is an impactful campaign during Melanoma Awareness Month that urges people to monitor their skin health actively. This initiative emphasises the importance of regular self skin checks as well as professional checks with a dermatologist, reinforcing that early detection can lead to better treatment outcomes and even save lives.
Sun Protection Tips for Sydney Siders
Sydney’s intense sun demands rigorous skin protection strategies:
- Slip on Protective Clothing: Opt for long-sleeved shirts and pants made from densely woven fabrics. Darker colours generally offer better UV protection. We recommend @theaquabrand for their uber stylish rash vests.
- Slop on SPF 50+ Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen to guard against UVA and UVB rays. Reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.
- Slap on a Hat: A broad-brimmed hat can shield your face, neck, and ears, areas highly vulnerable to sun damage.
- Seek Shade: UV rays are strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. Even on cloudy days, it’s important to find shade as UV light can penetrate clouds.
- Slide on Sunglasses: Protect your eyes with UV-protective sunglasses, preferably wrap-around styles that prevent side entry of rays.
When to Have Skin Checks
Regular skin checks are your best defence against melanoma. We recommend a professional skin check at least once a year with your dermatologist Those with higher risks, such as a family history of skin cancer, fair skin, or a history of sunburns, might consider more frequent checks. Also, perform monthly self-examinations of your skin, looking out for the ABCDEs of melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter over 6mm, and Evolving characteristics.
This Melanoma Awareness Month, let’s prioritise skin health. Remember, in Sydney, the sun waits for no one, and the best defence is protection and early detection. Schedule your next skin check today and stay vigilant.
Posted by Skin Clinic Blyss
in Skin Care
