World Cancer Day 2021
This year World Cancer Day is on 4th February 2021. Cancer is a global challenge. In 2018, 18 million people world-wide were diagnosed with cancer. Today, thanks to research, 2 in 4 people in the UK survive their cancer for 10 years or more.
Skin cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer in the world. Excessive exposure to UV radiation from the sun (or sunlight) is the main environmental risk factor for developing skin cancer. It is estimated that about 86% of all skin cancers in the UK are attributable to excessive exposure to sunlight. Exposure to artificial sources of UV radiation from indoor tanning beds/lamps is the second most important cause of skin cancer, according to scientists.
Many of us have moles on our skin and they are usually nothing to worry about unless they change size, shape or colour. It is vital to check your moles regularly, if you do notice a change this could be a sign of Melanoma. Melanoma is the third most common cancer in the UK. The good news is the earlier it is spotted and treated the better the outcome is.
At Woodford Medical we pride ourselves in taking good care of your skin. We offer minor surgery appointments for mole removal, so if you are worried about a mole or simply want it removed for cosmetic reasons, we can do this. We also offer a histology service where we will send your mole away if we feel it needs further investigation to make sure there is nothing to worry about.
With daily walks and exercise the new norm it is more important than ever to ensure you are wearing good quality, broad spectrum sun protection every day. Here at Woodford Medical we stock the Epionce Skincare range which includes a medical grade SPF 50. Epionce was founded by Dr Carl Thornfeldt who has over 25 years of skin research experience, he has been named as one of the top 50 doctors in the U.S. and the only doctor specialising in dermatology to appear on the list. Dr Thornfeldt’s particular area of interest is protecting and repairing the skin barrier to prevent sun damage and attack by polluting free radicals.
The Epionce protect and prevent formula has been specially designed to reduce the risk of skin cancer associated with exposure to UVA/UVB rays.
Here are our top tips for applying sunscreen:
1. The best time to apply sunscreen is to cool, clean, dry skin at least 20-30 minutes before going outside. Applying sunscreen on the beach will NOT give you the best protection!
2. To get the best protection, apply a second layer of sunscreen half an hour after applying the first layer. Again, make sure your skin is cool and dry.
3. Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. For your face, plan on using at least half a teaspoon. For your body apply enough to fill a shot glass.
4. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your ears and neck and if you are thinning on top, don’t forget your scalp!
5. Your sunscreen will work better if your skin barrier is healthy. Keep your skin barrier healthy with an Epionce Renewal product! The Renewal Enriched Body Lotion is great for arms and legs, and a Renewal Facial product for your skin type is ideal for the face.
At a time when skin cancer rates are soaring globally now is the time to make sure your skin is totally protected. If you have any concerns about how best to protect, repair and prevent sun damage then consider booking a virtual skin consultation with one of our highly skilled Therapists.