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Keep Dark Skin Safe in The Sun
Just because you are a Black beauty doesn’t mean your skin is protected from the sun. Yes, melanin is amazing, but it is not enough to prevent damage.
Just because you may not see a sunburn doesn’t mean your skin is damage-free. Casual sun exposure, like driving a car, running, walking or gardening, can be the most damaging because it occurs on a daily basis over a long period of time. It can have a cumulative effect, showing up as deep wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin, leathery skin, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer.
Protection is a MustWhile skin cancer is more prevalent in white people, late- stage melanoma diagnoses are more common in Hispanic and Black patients than in non-Hispanic white patients and therefore have a worse prognosis. There is a 67% estimated five-year survival rate for African American patients verses 92% for white patients. By using sunscreen you can decrease your chances of getting melanoma, so start protecting your skin and your family at a young age—and if you don’t usually wear sunscreen, now is a great time to start.
Applying SPF is great way to protect your skin, even if you are only going out for a short period of time—add it as the last step to your daily skincare routine so it becomes a habit.
And don’t forget about your eyes and lips. Wear UV-protective sunglasses in your favorite style when outdoors to prevent dark circles and sun damage around your eyes. And there are many lip products available that contain full-spectrum protection, so choose one with an SPF of 30 or more. In addition to preventing sunburn and sun damage, sunscreen can also help fade lip discoloration, so it’s a win-win.
Early Detection is EverythingThe rate of skin cancer is rising in the U.S. and it can affect people of any race, sex, or age. But when detected early, survival rates can be almost 100%. There are ways you can weave preventative practices into your own skincare routine. Checking for skin cancer sounds overwhelming, but the truth is, it’s an easy add-on and self-checking can save your life.