Many turn to social media rather than professionals for information on skin care and skin health. Baylor College of Medicine dermatologist Dr. Ida Orengo and surgical oncologist Dr. E. Ramsay Camp share facts, not fiction, about melanoma that people need to believe.
TikTok influencers have suggested that the chemicals in sunscreen can be absorbed into the skin and cause harmful effects, including cancer. Both Orengo and Camp say sunscreen is imperative in preventing skin cancer, including melanoma.
“There is no credible scientific evidence that sunscreen causes cancer,” Camp said. “In fact, numerous studies have shown that regular use of sunscreen significantly reduces the risk of developing skin cancers.”
Melanoma is one the most rapidly increasing cancers – the World Health Organization says about 132,000 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed globally every year.
To properly use sunscreen, you must:
•Use with at least 30 SPF.
•Apply 20 minutes before exposure and reapply every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
•Replace sunscreen annually – it does have an expiration date.
“Understanding risk factors such as fair skin, family history, presence of moles and taking preventive measures, such as using sunscreen and avoiding tanning beds, can help reduce the risk of developing melanoma,” Orengo said. “Regular skin checks and monitoring for any changes in moles are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.”