According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. There are different kinds of skin cancers, and the most common cause for each of them is sun exposure. The different skin cancers are categorized under three main types.
 |
| Basal cell carcinoma |
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common kind of skin cancer. More than 90% of all skin cancers in the U.S. are basal cell carcinomas. It is most often found on areas of the body that are always exposed to the sun, such as the head, neck, and arms. It grows slowly and rarely spreads elsewhere in the body, unless it is left untreated. If caught early enough, basal cell carcinoma is very treatable. Look for flat, shiny, waxy areas on the skin.
Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the squamous cells of the skin, which are in the upper layers of the epidermis. Like basal cell carcinomas, they are often found on the areas of the body that are most often exposed to the sun, including ears, neck, and lips. Squamous cell carcinomas tend to spread more than basal cell carcinomas. They are more likely to advance into fatty tissues of the skin, as well as lymph nodes. As with basal cell carcinoma, if caught early, squamous cell carcinoma is quite treatable. Look for small lumps with a reddish, rough surface. 
Malignant melanoma is the most serious kind of skin cancer because it may spread rapidly to other organs. Melanoma accounts for 75% of all skin cancer related deaths. Melanoma develops within the melanocyte cells, the skin cells that are responsible for making skin pigment. Malignant melanoma is more common in people who get occasional, high-intensity sun exposure. People who sunbathe on vacations or during brief sunny periods in cold climates may get such exposure. Look for abnormally large moles, a mole that changes color, size and texture, or one that feels sore to the touch.
It is commonly thought that those with darker skin don't have to worry about skin cancer. In fact, everyone is at risk. Even though darker skin produces more melanin, which translates into more protection from the sun, people of any race or ethnicity can develop skin cancer. For this reason, it is important to wear sunscreen, and check your body for signs of cancer on a regular basis, no matter what your skin tone.
There are more and more cases of skin cancer every day. However, many cases can be prevented by avoiding ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure- or at least limiting it. Sunlight emits both UVA and UVB rays, which both contribute to skin cancer. Full-spectrum sunscreen protects against both types of UV rays. Additionally, skin cancer can be prevented or at least caught early by paying close attention to any changes on your skin.
 |
| PCA SKIN Sunscreens |
