Summer, Seahorses... and Skin Cancer?

Well, summer is almost here again. That means tiny swimsuits, days in the sun... and a greater risk for skin cancer.

I feel like people don't take skin cancer as seriously as other cancers. But we should take skin cancer very seriously. Skin cancer is the most common form of human cancer with more than 1 million new cases each year (source).

A few years ago my grandfather was diagnosed with skin cancer and was quickly treated. Doctors said if he hadn't detected it and acted early he wouldn't be here today.
I am fair-skinned with light hair, blue eyes and freckles. I know my risk is greater so I am very proactive to make sure I don't become part of the statistic. I just scheduled a dermatologist appointment for an abnormal spot on my shoulder.

The responsibility of our health is on us alone.

Here are some skin cancer resources you should check out:

This link brings you to a clear and thorough slideshow of precancerous skin lesions and skin cancer pictures.

This link brings you to the Road to Healthy Skin Tour. Check to see if the tour is coming to your area for a free screening.

Some simple tips to remember:

- avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when rays are the strongest

- avoid tanning beds (!!!!)

- use a UVA/UVB sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 on exposed areas

- use hats, sunglasses and protective clothing when possible

- examine your skin often for anything unusual

- visit a dermatologist immediately if you find anything unusual

Do you think of skin cancer differently than other cancers? What do you do to protect yourself?

Not 'Breaking Out' Anymore!

Back in early November '08 I did post "Breaking Out... the bad way" about some skin issues I was suffering from. My normally-clear face was now breaking out despite all the fancy products I tried.

Lots of you had some great tips- from different products that worked miracles on your own skin to little tips like 'try to touch your face less' and 'take a day off makeup here and there.'

One tip I tried first ended up saving me. I tried Melissa's (check out her blog- she and her husband Chad are sweethearts and have the cutest dogs) tip about Purpose Gentle Cleansing Bar. A dermatologist reccomended this cheap, OTC facewash when her skin started breaking out.

I'm sure you know Purpose in it's blue cardboard box. Mine was only about $3. I've since thrown out my box, but you can see the box packed in my suitcase here:

Well, I tried it on my road trip and have used it every day since! It's so gentle on my skin, but I haven't broken out at all. It smells so clean and is a simple wipe-on/wash-off process. I love it.

I hope this helps in case you're seeking out a (cheap) facewash that works for you!

Breaking Out... the bad way

This post is about skin issues... a topic I never thought I'd have to write about. Growing up and throughout my teens I always had clear healthy skin. Now in my 20s my skin turned into a mess overnight. I'm eating clean most of the time, getting tons of water, sleeping enough and exercising the same... but my skin is suddenly prone to breakouts for what seems to be no reason at all.

I've always used a face wash with benzoyl peroxide but decided I needed to switch up my skin care routine when breakout started popping up for no reason!

I tried to H20 Oil/Blemish Control Line, Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser and I even finally caved and ordered ProActiv.

The H20 and Aveeno products worked fairly well, but I still get breakouts... and that's not okay with me. The ProActiv line seems to do weird things to my skin. At first it cleared my skin and made it brighter... most of the skin is still clear except for alternating patches of breakouts. Very weird.

So...

I know this blog reaches many women... and many women with skin success stories of their own. Care to share any skin care tips or amazing products for a non-puberty-related case of bad skin?


**Edited to add: Sagan suggested taking a few days off wearing make-up. I don't wear any makeup, so that can't help me! :(

photo