November is National Healthy Skin Month. It began in 1997 to raise awareness of skin cancer as well as provide people with information on how to best take care of their skin. In fact, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. Furthermore, one in five Americans will develop it by the age of 70. However, when detected early, the survival for skin cancer is relatively high. As the air gets colder and drier, the more important it is to take care of your skin. A common misconception is that you only worry about skin cancer during the summer months when the UV is high. However, there are still risk factors that can apply across the board, no matter what time of year it is.
Risk Factors
- Excessive use of tanning beds or sun exposure.
- Fair skin.
- Age.
- Family history of skin cancer.
Tips on Taking Care of Your Skin
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser, and be sure to moisturize afterward.
- Wear SPF every day regardless of the time of year.
- Avoid tanning beds.
- Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet.
- Avoid picking, popping, or touching acne, scabs, etc.
- Get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
- Try to reduce your stress levels to avoid breakouts and skin issues.
- Self-examine often and visit a dermatologist if you see something that looks off.
Encouraging Prevention at Work
One of the most effective ways to implement skin cancer prevention techniques is to bring them to the workplace. Because skin cancer is so prevalent, it is crucial to help your employees by providing resources, posting them throughout the workplace, and allowing HR representatives to educate them on prevention and treatment options. Emphasize the importance of annual screenings and regular skin checks with a dermatologist.