As we enter Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it’s essential to revisit our sun protection habits and ensure we’re taking the necessary steps to protect our skin from harmful UV radiation. While many of us are aware of the importance of sunscreen, there are often misconceptions about its usage and effectiveness, especially during colder months when the sun may not feel as intense.
Understanding the risks
Skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, is one of the most prevalent types of cancer globally. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun is a significant risk factor for developing skin cancer. Actinic keratosis (AK), characterised by rough, scaly patches on the skin, is considered a precursor to certain types of skin cancer, making its prevention crucial in reducing cancer risk.
The importance of sun protection
Choosing the right kind of sun protection goes beyond simply applying sunscreen. It involves understanding your skin type, the intensity of UV radiation, and the duration of sun exposure. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against all types of UV radiation, like the Heliocare 360° MD AK Fluid SPF 100+, which offers advanced sun damage repair and protection. For an extra shield, wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats.
Reapplication is key
One of the most common mistakes people make is not reapplying sunscreen frequently enough. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Even on cloudy days or during the winter months, UV radiation can still penetrate through clouds and cause skin damage. Make it a habit to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, regardless of the weather.
Choosing high SPF
Many dermatologists recommend using sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Higher SPF values offer greater protection against UV radiation, reducing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. The Heliocare 360° MD AK Fluid SPF 100+ provides a very high level of sun protection, making it an ideal choice for individuals with fair or sensitive skin or those at higher risk of skin cancer.
The Heliocare 360° MD AK Fluid SPF 100+
Heliocare 360° MD AK Fluid SPF 100+ is a powerful sun damage repair complex formulated to prevent and protect against actinic keratosis and non-melanoma skin cancer. Packed with potent antioxidants like Fernblock+ and enriched with Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and the GenoRepair® Complex, this Heliocare sunscreen offers comprehensive photo-immunoprotection, neutralising free radicals, repairing DNA damage, and strengthening the skin’s natural repair mechanisms.
How to use the Heliocare 360° MD AK Fluid SPF 100+
For optimal protection, shake the bottle before use and apply evenly and generously to clean, intact skin before sun exposure. Reapply frequently, especially under direct or intense exposure conditions. Avoid applying to open lesions, and for those undergoing pharmacological treatment or surgery for actinic keratosis or non-melanoma skin cancer, use only once the lesions have healed.
As we raise awareness about skin cancer this month and beyond, let’s remember to prioritise sun protection and make it a part of our daily routine – no matter the weather! By choosing the right kind of protection, reapplying sunscreen diligently, and choosing to use high SPF products like the Heliocare 360° MD AK Fluid SPF 100+, we can take proactive steps to protect our skin properly with every application.
