What Causes Skin Cancer? How to Protect Your Skin From Sun Damage

In the US, more than 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day. No matter where you live or what time of the year it is, knowing how to protect against sun damage and prevent future harm is crucial. Dermstore has collaborated with the Skin Cancer Foundation to create a set specifically designed to help defend against the effects of sun damage.  

What Is Skin Cancer & How Do You Get It? 

Caused by unrepaired DNA damage that triggers mutations, skin cancer is the ‘out-of-control growth of abnormal cells in the skin’s outermost layer’ (1), which multiply and form malignant tumors.  

The two main causes of skin cancer are the sun’s ultraviolet (UV rays) and the use of UV tanning beds. The older you are, the more likely you are to develop non-melanoma skin cancer. However, skin cancers can also develop in younger people. It is important to be conscious of the dangers of sun damage from a young age to try and prevent future skin harm. 

Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCGs) are three of the main types of skin cancer. Melanoma is the most dangerous of the three most common forms, developing from the skin cells that produce melanin pigment. Often resembling or emerging from moles, melanoma can be triggered by sun exposure and tanning bed use.  

What Causes Sun Damage; Risk Factors 

A risk factor is something that increases the possibility of developing a disease. There are several risk factors that can contribute to the development of skin cancer, such as sunburns, unprotected exposure to UVA/UVB rays, genetics, indoor tanning or having red hair. The daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF and annual skin exams are just two ways of helping to minimize the risk of skin cancer 

How Can We Protect & Prevent Our Skin From Sun Damage? 

Summer isn’t the only time of year when we are at risk of developing skin cancer; even if it is cloudy or raining, we are still exposed to the sun’s rays. As well as applying sunscreen consistently from a young age, there are other ways to defend yourself against the development of skin cancer. This could be something such as sitting in the shade, covering up the skin with protective clothing and checking your skin regularly. Additionally, using a tanning bed before the age of 35 increases your risk of melanoma by 75%, so avoid using them. Taking these steps helps to protect yourself and your loved ones all year round.  

What Products Do We Recommend For Sun Protection?

Dermstore and The Skin Cancer Foundation have united a collection of skincare essentials that help to defend the skin against sun damage all year round. The Sun Care Kit features products that protect against UV rays, alongside a host of other skincare benefits. 

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 Full Size ($41)