This summer, make sure you’re protecting yourself from head to toe against the sun’s harmful rays.
It is important to use clothing and sunscreen to cover high-risk areas like the legs, arms, and back, and don’t forget less obvious spots like the scalp, ears, hands, and feet.
Make sure you and your dermatologist check your skin regularly and thoroughly for suspicious spots – catching skin cancer early is important for successful treatment.
Skin cancer prevention has come a long way, but summer is still a great time to brush up on your skin protection plan, including those unexpected spots where sun damage can occur.
Shelley Mulrooney, PA, a surgical oncology physician assistant with Regional One Health Cancer Care who specializes in treating melanoma, wants patients to protect themselves from head to toe!
“Make sure you consistently wear sunscreen of SPF 50 or higher or cover your skin with clothing,” Mulrooney said. See a dermatologist regularly, and follow the “ABCDE” rule to check moles or spots on your skin – it stands for Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variations, Diameter over a quarter of an inch, and Evolving. Have spots with those characteristics checked by a professional.”
Remember, skin cancer doesn’t just occur on the face, arms, legs, and other commonly exposed places. Make sure your protection and detection plans include these less obvious spots!
The Scalp
“Your hair provides some protection, but not enough – especially if you have thinning hair or bald spots,” Mulrooney said. “Spray sunscreens and wide-brimmed hats are a great option to cover exposed areas.”
Make sure you and your dermatologist look at your scalp. You can also ask your hairstylist to alert you to potential problems.
Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are great ways to protect the skin on your scalp, ears, and around the eyes.
The Ears
Mulrooney said the backs and tops of your ears are a high-risk spot for squamous cell carcinoma, which is linked to cumulative UV damage.
Your ears are exposed anytime you go outside, so apply sunscreen daily. If you’ll be outside for long periods of time, wear a hat with a brim.
The Eyes
“Don’t be hesitant about using sunscreen around your eyes! The skin is delicate, so it’s vulnerable to basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer,” Mulrooney said.
Sunscreens for sensitive skin are a good option, or wear UV-blocking sunglasses. If you notice a lesion that isn’t healing or looks crusty, get it checked by a physician.
Fingers and Toes
Skin cancer under fingernails or toenails is called subungual melanoma. Mulrooney noted cancer can also develop between fingers and toes.
Be vigilant about applying sunscreen to these areas, and watch for dark stripes, discoloration, or spots under your nails. Don’t forget to check between fingers and toes during skin exams.
Soles of the Feet
Melanoma can form inside the mouth and nose. If you experience persistent nosebleeds or mouth sores, talk to a health care provider.
The bottom of your foot may not get much exposure, but it’s possible to develop melanoma. People with darker skin tones are at a higher risk, Mulrooney said.
Spots, bumps, and sores that won’t go away should be checked by a provider.
Inside the Mouth and Nose
Mucosal melanoma, a rare but aggressive skin cancer, occurs in the linings of the nose, mouth, and throat.
Mulrooney noted your dentist may be the first person to sound the alarm, and Ear, Nose & Throat specialists can help. If you experience persistent mouth sores or nosebleeds, mention it to a health care provider.
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“I encourage patients to take a full-body mindset when it comes to prevention and early detection of skin cancer,” Mulrooney said. “Stay vigilant about protecting commonly exposed areas, and don’t ignore those overlooked spots.”