Six Avoidable Risk Factors
While melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma can also spread and cause significant problems. Besides the obvious, here are six ways you might be unknowingly increasing your skin cancer risk that you can actually avoid.
Nail Salon Lamps
Going for regular manicures might keep your nails looking great, but if you visit the nail salon once a week or more, you could be putting yourself at risk. The lamps used to dry nails emit rays that can potentially damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer.
Indoor Tanning Beds
Some people think that indoor tanning beds are a safer alternative to natural sunlight, but this isn’t true. The rays from tanning beds are the same ones that cause skin cancer in sunlight. Although some believe that tanning in moderation is okay, it still increases your chances of developing one of the three types of skin cancer. Tanning beds are so common that many college campuses even provide these facilities for students.
Facial Peels
Facial rejuvenation treatments, like facial peels, are quite popular, but it’s essential to understand the increased skin cancer risk associated with these procedures. The chemical TCA, used in some peels, can act as a carcinogen, potentially increasing cancer risk, although there haven’t been human studies yet. An alternative to TCA peels could be a salicylic acid peel or something similar.
Cheap Swimwear
Not all swimwear is created equally. Some cheaper options might seem like a good bargain, but during inspections, around a quarter of swimwear brands failed to meet quality standards, often due to excess formaldehyde. This chemical has been linked to allergies and certain types of cancer.
Smoking
By now, most people are aware of the health dangers associated with smoking cigarettes, cigars, hookah, and other tobacco products. These include an increased risk of lung cancer and respiratory diseases. However, smoking is also linked to a 52% higher risk of squamous cell skin cancer as of 2012. While not as deadly as melanoma, which kills thousands annually, it’s still a significant risk factor that shouldn’t be ignored.
Limited Sunscreen
Even if you apply sunscreen regularly, it doesn’t offer complete protection from harmful UV rays. Many people mistakenly believe that one application is sufficient, but sunscreen can wear off due to sweat, water, and time. Additionally, some chemicals in conventional sunscreen can do more harm than good. Dermatologists and skin cancer groups have petitioned the FDA to approve new ingredients to enhance sunscreen effectiveness, but no action has been taken yet.
How to Further Decrease Risk for Skin Cancer
From this evidence, it might seem like avoiding the sun entirely is the only way to prevent skin cancer. However, this isn’t practical or healthy since sunlight is the best source of vitamin D. Additionally, people with mild hypertension often have lower blood pressure in the summer compared to winter, suggesting a beneficial link between sunlight and blood pressure. Finding a balance is key. Avoid excessive sun exposure and harsh artificial lighting when possible. Additionally, ensure you consume a diet high in antioxidants, as these compounds support skin health and fight free radicals associated with disease.