Sunscreen Isn’t Optional: How to Truly Protect Your Skin from Cancer
Sunscreen
Isn’t Optional: How to Truly Protect Your Skin from Cancer
In the scorching sun of Dubai or even under cloudy skies, one truth
remains constant: sunscreen is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Skin
cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and while it’s highly
preventable, it continues to affect millions due to a simple, recurring
mistake: underestimating the sun.
As we approach the 11th International Cancer, Oncology and Therapy Conference
from September 2–4, 2025 in Dubai, it's time to spotlight an issue that
is both widespread and largely avoidable—skin cancer caused by unprotected
UV exposure.
π Why Sunscreen Is
Non-Negotiable
Sunscreen protects your skin by absorbing or reflecting harmful ultraviolet
(UV) radiation from the sun. These rays—UVA and UVB—damage your skin cells’
DNA, leading to mutations that can result in skin cancer.
Here's what regular sunscreen use
does:
- Prevents DNA damage that can lead to skin
cancers
- Reduces the risk of melanoma by up to 50%
- Slows signs of aging (wrinkles, pigmentation,
sagging)
- Protects against painful
sunburns
Despite these proven benefits, many people skip sunscreen or apply it
incorrectly, leaving their skin vulnerable.
π§΄ Choosing the Right
Sunscreen
When shopping for sunscreen, don’t just pick the one with the highest
SPF. Look for these features:
- Broad-spectrum protection (blocks both UVA and UVB
rays)
- SPF 30 or higher
- Water resistance
- Non-comedogenic (if you have acne-prone
skin)
- Suitable for your skin type (gel-based for oily skin,
cream-based for dry skin)
π Apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply
every 2 hours—more often if swimming or sweating.
π€ Know Your Skin Type to
Protect It Better
Skin types vary significantly and affect how vulnerable you are to sun
damage and skin cancer. Here’s a quick breakdown based on the Fitzpatrick
Skin Type Classification:
Skin Type |
Characteristics |
Risk Level |
Type I |
Very fair,
always burns, never tans |
Very High |
Type II |
Fair, burns
easily, tans minimally |
High |
Type III |
Medium,
sometimes burns, tans uniformly |
Moderate |
Type IV |
Olive or
light brown, rarely burns |
Moderate |
Type V |
Brown, rarely
burns, tans easily |
Lower |
Type VI |
Dark brown or
black, never burns |
Lower, but not immune |
π Important: Darker skin tones can still get skin
cancer, often diagnosed at later stages due to lower awareness and
detection.
𧬠Types of Skin Cancer
You Should Know
Understanding the different types of skin cancer can save lives. Early
detection is key, and each type presents differently:
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
- Most common type
- Appears as a pearly bump or
flat, flesh-colored lesion
- Slow-growing and rarely
spreads
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- Appears as a red, scaly
patch or sore that doesn’t heal
- Can grow deeper into skin
and spread if untreated
3. Melanoma
- Most dangerous type
- May develop from existing
moles or new dark spots
- Look for the ABCDEs:
Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter >6mm,
Evolution
4. Merkel Cell
Carcinoma
- Rare but aggressive
- Appears as painless, firm
nodules on sun-exposed areas
π Early Detection Saves
Lives
Skin cancer is one of the few cancers you can see with your eyes.
Regular self-examinations and dermatologist visits are critical.
Self-Check Tips:
- Use a mirror to examine your
back and scalp
- Monitor moles and spots
monthly
- Take pictures to track
changes
- See a dermatologist
annually—or sooner if you notice suspicious changes
π Join the Global
Conversation in Dubai
Skin cancer prevention is a global priority. The upcoming 11th
International Cancer, Oncology and Therapy Conference, to be held in Dubai,
UAE from September 2–4, 2025, provides a unique platform to learn, network,
and collaborate on global solutions to cancer, including advancements in
dermatologic oncology.
Join leading oncologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals as
they present innovations in cancer care—from precision medicine and
immunotherapy to early detection and public health strategies.
π Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
π Dates: September 2–4, 2025
π More Info & Abstract Submission:
π https://cancer-conferences.com
Deadline of Abstract Submission is 31st
May 2025
π§‘ Final Word
Wearing sunscreen daily is one of the simplest acts of self-care that
can literally save your life. Let’s spread awareness, push for early detection, and take sun
protection seriously—not just in summer, but year-round.
Because when it comes to skin cancer, prevention truly is the best
cure.
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