DuPage Medical Group dermatologist offers 6 ways to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer

Did you know about one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their life?

Often caused by the sun's harmful rays, genetics or long-term medications that suppress your immune system, skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells that commonly occurs on areas of the body where there is a lot of exposure to the sun. Key places include: your head, neck, scalp, arms, lips, feet and nails. From basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma to melanoma, skin cancer presents in various forms and affects all ages and ethnicities. Without taking proper precautions, you can put yourself at significant risk for skin cancer.

Our skin naturally has pigment, or color. Pigment helps protect your skin when it's exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. By proactively caring for your skin, you can avoid DNA damage that occurs from UV light and decrease your risk for skin cancer. To prevent skin cancer, it's essential that you're aware of your body, recognizing what is and isn't normal. You can start by giving yourself monthly skin checks where you examine your skin head to toe. During these self-exams, you can identify growths and potential abnormalities while gaining a deeper understanding of your skin type. Beyond skin checks, here are six daily ways you can lower your risk of developing skin cancer:

• Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher. Make sure to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, and after you've been sweating or swimming. On cloudy days and even in the winter, you should still use sunblock - although there may not be visible sunlight, ultraviolet rays still penetrate clouds and can lead to sun damage over time.

• Seek shade when the sun is the strongest.

Between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the sun's ultraviolet radiation tends to be most powerful, increasing your likelihood of getting skin cancer. During this timeframe, stray away from sunlight and find shady areas.

• Wear sun protective clothing.

To provide adequate sun protection, reach for a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and ultraviolet apparel, such as long sleeves.

• Avoid intentionally tanning.

Both outdoor tanning and indoor tanning beds can have negative consequences. Deliberately tanning not only enhances your chance of getting skin cancer, including melanoma, but it can lead to premature signs of aging like wrinkles and dark spots.

• Eat foods rich in antioxidants.

Foods containing vitamins C, D, E, and A, omega-3 fatty acids, beta carotene, lycopene and polyphenols can eliminate free radicals from your skin. Free radicals are oxygen molecules that generate inflammation and trauma to your cells, potentially making you more prone to skin cancer. Though more research is needed to fully understand the effects of diet on skin cancer, it is a good general rule to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Integrating blueberries, carrots, cantaloupe, watermelon, apricots, salmon, leafy greens and nuts into your diet is a great start.

• Know which medications can make you sensitive to the sun.

Certain medications are more sun-sensitive than others. For instance, acne medicines, like topical retinoids and tetracycline antibiotics, can trigger photosensitivity reactions to the sun's rays. Also, medications that weaken your immune system can impair your skin's ability to fight UV damage and impair your skin's health when mixed with the sun.

Regardless if you're a young child, teenager or adult, skin cancer is preventable at any age. It's important to monitor your skin and keep a close eye on potential changes. When you detect troublesome spots early, you can receive the treatment you need before it's too late. Remember, your skin truly serves as a protective layer for a thriving body!

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Dr. Ashley Feneran is a dermatologist that practices at DuPage Medical Group. In her practice, she is focused on providing personalized, innovative care related to skin, hair and nails. From skin cancer prevention, diagnosis to treatment, DMG ensures each patient receives accessible and efficient healthcare. For more information or to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist online, visit www.dupagemedicalgroup.com/services/dermatology