Wow! Spring has sprung, have you seen all the wildflowers out there? Mother Nature sure is putting on a beautiful show this year.
Warm sunny days are begging us to go outside. Before you step out, please remember to put on your sunscreen. Be sure to cover your entire face, neck, ears, chest and any exposed body parts.
Why We Sunscreen
To prevent skin cancer. Each year over 5-million cases worldwide are diagnosed. 15,000 people die of squamous cell carcinoma in the US each year. Worldwide; 5,400 people die of non-melanoma skin cancer every month – yes, month. Remember, exposure is cumulative. It’s like interest in your bank account – little by little, it adds up.
Wear It, Always
Sunscreen isn’t just for sunny days. Those damaging UV-rays can hit us through our car or living room windows, even on cloudy and rainy days. Even if you can’t feel the sun beating down on you, you’re still at risk for UV exposure. UVA rays can penetrate through windows, clouds, rain, and fog, leaving you exposed.
Make It A Routine
Using a moisturizer with SPF helps me remember to at least put it on my face, neck & chest because it is part of my morning routine. A tinted moisturizer with SPF goes one step further in providing a warm glow.
Just like you, there are times when I’m rushing and skip my entire morning routine, including sunscreen. For those times, I keep some SPF in my car and a wide-brim hat.
Beyond the Facial
Did you know that when I perform a treatment I’m looking at and, over time, noting any differences in all the moles and hyperpigmentation marks on your skin? If the answer is no, then congratulations, you haven’t had anything look suspicious. I only see a portion of your skin, it is important to be checked by your doctor on a regular basis.
Know Your ABCDEs
The ABCDEs of skin cancer are:
- Asymmetry: Not asymmetrical? Get it checked
- Border: Not well defined? Get it checked
- Color: Multi-colored? Get it checked
- Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser? Get it checked
- Evolving: Changing/growing? Get it checked
Personally, if I see something on myself and think, what is that, I get it checked. Skin cancer runs in my family and I’m definitely not going to let skin cancer be the thing that gets me. I’ll step off my soapbox now.
What About Mom?
Mother’s Day is a month away. I know, I can’t believe it either. I’m working on something fun so keep an eye out for my next few emails. You’ll be getting the inside scoop before it’s announced on social media.
As always, if you have any skin care questions or needs, let me know.
Glow on,
Alison Phillips
P.S. If you have a friend, family member or coworker who is looking for some skincare TLC, please forward them this email. I promise to take good care of your referrals. Remember, every 3 referrals that make it in, you’ll get a free 60-minute European Facial.