Your Sun Care Habits At 30 Can Lead To Skin Cancer When You're 60
Sure, you like to get a tan every summer, or maybe you’ve been known to indulge in a few tanning-bed sessions before a big event or winter vacation. But as long as your skin looks good now, you’re doing fine, right? Uh, nope.
No matter how lovely you look today, your skin could already be in danger from slow-growing non-melanoma basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or other forms of skin cancer.
“A tan may look good to you now, but later you’ll regret it when you have to have surgeries on your face and body to remove skin cancer,” said dermatologist Dr.Claire Wolinsky.
The regret is real, said dermatologist Dr.Hadley King. “It’s important to realize that there’s no such thing as a healthy tan, even if you aren’t burning, since tanning is a defense mechanism that gets turned on when the DNA of skin cells is damaged by UV radiation.”
When you look in the mirror and like what you see, it can be hard to imagine the possibility of skin cancer, said dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman, but it can happen. “Younger skin is more resilient than older skin, so someone who gets sunburned in their 30s will likely see it clear up and resolve itself much quicker than someone in their 60s. Think of it this way — all the time you spend on your skin care routine, and the money you spend on skin care products, means very little unless you’re protecting your skin from the sun.”
It can take a long time — even decades — to develop skin cancer.
“Skin cancer is often a slow-developing disease, meaning it can take years, even decades, for the effects of sun exposure to manifest as cancerous lesions,” said dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Dr. Saami Khalifian. “Most basal cell carcinomas, for example, are a result of chronic sun exposure, and they can take anywhere from 15 to 30 years to develop.”
“Skin cancer is an accumulation of DNA abnormalities and DNA damage, so it could take many, many years to detect,” said dermatologist Dr.Michelle Henry. “You need to remember that your skin never forgets any exposure to the sun.”
If you’re thinking that the odds are on your side, think again. “There are several million cases of basal cell carcinoma diagnosed each year in the United States alone,” Dr. Khalifian said. And with BCC skin cancer cases increasingby 10% every year, people who are 30 now are more at risk than their parents and grandparents ever were.
Do this: Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen every day (and maybe some vitamin C).
It’s just this simple, according to the experts we talked with: Don’t ever, ever leave the house without wearing sunscreen. If you think it’s only a summertime or sunny day necessity, you’re already on the wrong track, said dermatologist Dr.Mina Amin. “Wear it every day, all year round, regardless of the weather or temperature,” she said.
When you’re shopping, read sunscreen labels, Khalifian said: “Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, ideally with iron oxide tint to also block out visible light, which can lead to melasma and other brown pigmentation of the skin.” And don’t be shy about applying and reapplying. “Slather on your sunscreen, and use lots of it,” Henry said. “It’s always better to be proactive than reactive.”
Once you’ve applied sunscreen, you can’t just check out, said Dr. Abrahem Kazemi. “Plan ahead so it’s applied 15 minutes prior to leaving your home, and then reapply it every two hours when you’re outdoors in direct sunlight.”
Consistency matters a great deal, these dermatologists said. “Studies have tracked the skin of people who used sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather or their daily activities, compared to people who only used sunscreen on days that were particularly sunny, when they’d be spending significant time outside,” King said. “Those who used sunscreen every day had skin that aged significantly better.”
Even if a car seems like an enclosed space, you shouldn’t drive without sunscreen. “I often see more sun damage on the left side of the face compared to the right side, because the sun can cause damage on the road,” Amin said. (Antipodean side note: King pointed out that in Australia, where they drive on the other side of the road, “people tend to have more sun damage on their right side.”)
In addition to sunscreen, you might want to start using a topical antioxidant with vitamin C. “Apply it first thing in the morning after cleansing,” said aesthetic physician Dr. Rachel Reyes-Bergano. “This will help fight oxidative stress brought on by UV exposure.”
Don’t do this: sunburns and tanning beds.
One of the most important commitments you can make is to never, ever get another sunburn. “Just five or more sunburns in your lifetime can double your risk of developing melanoma, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD),” Khalifian said. You’re making a big mistake if you aren’t wearing a hat, sunglasses and long sleeves when you go outside. “If you don’t have protection like that, you can increase your skin’s exposure to harmful UV rays, further contributing to the cumulative damage over time,” he added.
More tips? Never sit out directly in the sun, Wolinsky said. And, if you really love how you look with a tan, she suggested self-tanner instead of using a tanning bed. Dermatologist Dr.Brendan Camp said that tanning beds can increase the risk of developing basal cell, squamous cell and melanoma skin cancer. “The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the WHO’s International Agency of Research on Cancer panel have declared ultraviolet radiation from the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds and sun lamps, to be aknown carcinogen, or cancer-causing substance,” he said.
No matter your age, pay attention to skin health.
Wolinsky cited this experience from her own practice: “My patients who develop skin cancer are often upset that they weren’t more careful with sun exposure in their youth. And those folks are also prime candidates for sun spots, enlarged pores and poor skin texture, too.”
No matter your age, Camp said, it’s important not just to follow these guidelines, but also to have regular skin checks. “For early detection, consult with a board-certified dermatologist to evaluate existing and changing moles and skin growths.” Hartman added that some people might want to do even more: “If you’ve had skin cancer in the past, or have a family history of skin cancer, you should get your skin checked more frequently throughout the year.”
Looking for a solid sunscreen? Our readers recommend these as their favorites of all time.
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Sephora
Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30
Alongside our readers, both Pamela Anderson and Hailey Bieber are fans of Summer Fridays’ ShadeDrops SPF 30 mineral sunscreen. It's a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight, naturally radiant finish that protects from UV rays while also providing nourishing ingredients to the skin. Made with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients, this sunscreen is formulated with zinc oxide, squalane, chamomile and an antioxidant blend of vitamin E and ethyl ferulate. They work together to shield the skin from sun damage and to hydrate, soften and smooth the skin and protect against further damage from free radicals.
Sephora
Supergoop! Mineral Sheer Screen SPF 30
Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, recommended this reader-fave screenie. "This is a 100% mineral sunscreen product that offers SPF 30 protection," Camp said. "The labeling also includes information about protection from UVA radiation, PA (protection grade of UVA), which many sunscreens do not report." It also shields the skin from blue light. It's completely sheer so you don't have to worry about a white cast and has a lightweight finish that won't weigh your skin down.
Amazon
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face mineral sunscreen SPF 50
"This lightweight, non-greasy product provides SPF 50 protection and contains zinc oxide as the active ingredient," Camp said. It's specially formulated with antioxidants to be water-resistant, is naturally sourced and dries down quickly without leaving a greasy finish.
Sephora
Supergoop! Glow Screen SPF 40
High on my personal list of sunscreen essentials is Supergoop! Glow Screen, and I'm thrilled to see it is one of our readers' top picks from our chemical sunscreen story. It's what I reach for when I want a hint of tint and shimmer. It's basically your skin, but better — plus sun protection. It's available in four different shades and has a slightly heavier finish than other chemical sunscreens, in part because of the tint component. But since it essentially replaces foundation for me, I don't mind that it isn't as lightweight as others. The pearlescent finish gives skin an immediate glow while hyaluronic acid and niacinamide hydrate, nurture and help to diminish the look of common signs of aging. This was also a top reader pick from our article featuring sunscreens with anti-aging ingredients!
Dermstore
SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense sunscreen
Along with the rest of the SkinCeuticals line, HuffPost readers swarm to this popular, luxurious sunscreen. Not only does the chemical formulation protect against sun damage, it claims to actively work to diminish the look of discoloration, helping to brighten and even out skin tone thanks to ingredients like tranexamic acid and niacinamide. Reflective pigments help to give the skin an immediate glow, making it ideal for someone looking to perk up their skin quickly and visibly. This was also a top pick from our article about the best sunscreens with anti-aging ingredients!
Stylevana
Beauty of Joseon probiotic SPF 50+
If you're a fan of Korean beauty products, then you're going to want to stock up on this gorgeous sunscreen. It's wildly popular among the skin care set, with everyone from beauty lovers to influencers touting its skin-enhancing abilities. It's my go-to daily sunscreen — primarily because it perfectly splits the difference between a fluid and a cream — and I'm thrilled to see it top the chemical sunscreen list of faves. It has a bit more grip than a fluid finish but doesn't feel as heavy or oily as a full-on cream or moisturizer. I rarely get more compliments than when I head out wearing this sunscreen and a touch of concealer. As with all Korean beauty products, it's important to remember to only purchase via reputable sites like Stylevana. It does take about two to three weeks to arrive, so I usually order two at a time to tide me over, but each tube lasts around three months, making it worth the already low price and shipping wait time.
Amazon
Round Lab moisturizing birch juice sun cream
According to Flores' previous article on Korean and Japanese beauty sunscreens, "this hydrating daily sun cream by Round Lab is lightweight, non-greasy and fast-absorbing and doesn't leave a white cast. The broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula feels cool and refreshing on the skin and contains both birch tree sap and hyaluronic acid to help keep skin moisturized throughout the day." It was one of HuffPost readers' top three picks and with good reason!
Amazon
Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen Water Essence facial sunscreen
Shopping writer Tessa Flores pointed out in previous coverage that, "A prime example of water-based Japanese sunscreens, Bioré UV's Aqua Rich SPF 50 sun essence is a feather-light and oil-free gel formula that feels virtually undetectable on the skin and is compatible with all skin types including those who are acne-prone. It's infused with hyaluronic acid for lasting hydration and breathable protection that layers seamlessly under makeup." No wonder HuffPost readers couldn't get enough.
Stylevana
Isntree hyaluronic acid watery sun gel
Both Flores and myself have covered this reader-beloved sunscreen in the past. It's great for people with dry skin and anyone who loves a dewy (not greasy) finish. I love that is white-cast-free and has hydrating ingredients including eight different types of hyaluronic acid to help strengthen the moisture barrier and keep skin hydrated all day long. It boasts a hypoallergenic formula that is great for those with sensitive or compromised skin, and has been a popular pick among K-beauty fans for many years.
Amazon
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk sunscreen SPF 60
If you're as big a fan of French pharmacy beauty products as I am (and according to our data, you are), try La Roche-Posay's various sunscreens. In my opinion, their Anthelios melt-in sunscreen is by far their most exciting formulation. This super lightweight SPF truly does melt into the skin, leaving it dewy, natural-looking and non-greasy while providing a whopping SPF 100 protection that is also water-resistant. Your skin will love it.
Dermstore
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense mineral sunscreen
Skin care devotees will likely be familiar with SkinCeuticals' line of high-end serums and creams, but did you know that its sun protection products are just as effective and good for your skin? You likely do now, because this was one of our bestselling water-resistant sunscreens. This has a subtle tint that gives skin a radiant glow without leaving behind a thick white cast or oily residue. It's a surprisingly lightweight mineral formula that is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and can also help to defend skin against environmental stressors.
Amazon
Vacation Classic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 travel size three-pack
I can't get enough of the entire Vacation lineup, and it was the clear frontrunner for readers looking for water-resistant sunscreen. It has a really clean, lightweight finish that disappears into the skin leaving behind a delicious coconut-forward summery scent. It is easy to rub into skin and is water-resistant, making it ideal for all manner of summertime activities. It's also packed with skin-friendly ingredients like vitamin E, niacinamide, banana extract, aloe vera and coconut oil that help to soothe, soften and nourish skin. You can't go wrong with a three-pack of travel sized options from Amazon, just pop one in each of your bags and in your bathroom cabinet for easy access. Or you can purchase them individually and full-size at Ulta.
Amazon
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 sunscreen
You can't go wrong with sunscreen classic, Sun Bum — no wonder it's a HuffPost readers' top pick at Amazon. This moisturizing sunscreen lotion is clearly a crowd favorite. It's oxybenzone-, octinoxate- and oil-free, plus water-resistant.
Sephora
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen spf 40
This cult-favorite and HP reader-favorite sunscreen from Supergoop has a clear, lightweight and unscented formula so you don't have to deal with an irritating white cast. It's also oil-free and great for anyone who might have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Amazon
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunscreen
Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer sunscreen is lightweight and fast-absorbing, making it especially ideal for use on hot summer days. It even provides up to 80 minutes of water resistance — no wonder it's a popular reader go-to.
Dermstore
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light sunscreen SPF 50
According to Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist at MCDS Dermatology, "This ultralight sunscreen fluid is mineral-based, containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, but also offers a fast-absorbing, lightweight texture. It is easy to apply and also offers antioxidant protection." It's also one of HuffPost readers' favorite options for mature skin.
Amazon
CeraVe hydrating mineral sunscreen SPF 50
Garshick noted that "[t]his hydrating formulation contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum coverage. In addition, it contains hyaluronic acid to help provide moisture, ceramides to help support the skin’s natural barrier as well as niacinamide which can soothe the skin. This mineral sunscreen is fragrance- and paraben-free making it a good option even for those with dry or sensitive skin." Readers agree!
Walmart
La Roche Posay Anthelios XL 50 Anti-Shine Dry Touch gel-cream SPF 50+
Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama personally uses this sunscreen. He says it "applies easily and doesn't leave the skin feeling extra shiny or sticky. It also doesn't leave a white cast on my skin." It absorbs quickly and has soothing antioxidant ingredients that HuffPost readers can't get enough of.
