Thursday 24 November 2016

Your Skin and the Sun

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Your Skin and the Sun

The other day I went to get my skin checked for skin cancer. I was really caught off guard when the Doctor saw something odd on my face and instantly decided to remove it.  I had noticed the thing myself - it was really annoying me.  It popped up about 6 months ago and I thought it was a pimple, however when it didn't disappear I thought it could be something more sinister!  So off to the Doctor I went and a short time later I walked out with a small hole in my face,  a surgical band aid covering it and what must have been a very worried look on my face.  The red blotch was being sent away for testing to see if it was cancerous.  Thankfully the results came through a couple of days later and I gave a big sigh of relief when I was told the results were negative.

This whole episode made me think very carefully about my skin routine and how I can ensure I don't get skin cancer and sun damage.  I must admit, growing up in Queensland I loved being out in the sun, and I did tend to get burnt occasionally when I was young, so I do have to be very vigilant now with getting my skin checked regularly.

The Doctor I saw on the day said the best thing we can do for our skin is use a moisturiser with SPF in it.  I mentioned I use a foundation with SPF and I wear it everyday.  He said its not as good as moisturiser, but it will do.  Australians tend to see a lot of sun, and protecting our skin is extremely important for everyone - men, women and children.  Your sun protection routine must start first thing in the morning and continue right up until night time.  Not only should you use products on your face and body with SPF, but wearing a hat and sunglasses and a long sleeved shirt is also very important.

I have to go back to the Doctor in 12 months to get my skin checked again
, and I am very grateful I have access to someone who specialises in this field and can help me with this.  If you can't access a Doctor or skin specialist, please ask a relative or friend to help you check your body over - it could save your life!

Look after your skin