Tom Branna, Editorial Director05.03.21
Today is Melanoma Monday. The American Academy of Dermatology designates the first Monday in May to raise awareness of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. The AAD notes that although melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, it is highly treatable when detected early. Still, the rates of melanoma have been rising for the past 30 years. The AAD urges consumers to perform regular checks to look for any changes in their skin and when performing skin cancer exams to remember the ABCDE’s of melanoma.
A = Asymmetry – one half is unlike the other half
B = Border – the mole has an irregular, scalloped or poorly defined border
C = Color – is varied from one area to another; has shades of tan, brown or black, or is sometimes white, red, or blue
D = Diameter – melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, but they can be smaller
E = Evolving – a mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape or color
If consumers notice a spot that is different from others, or that changes, itches or bleeds, they should contact a board-certified dermatologist. And of course, everyone should wear sunscreen on a regular basis.
"As summer approaches, your skin care routine can change. The single most important product to use is sunscreen. SPF should be 30 or higher and should be applied every two hours when exposed to the sun," said Dermatologist Shari Sperling. "During summer months when it is hot outside, you can switch to a lighter moisturizer that is thinner. During winter months you may be using a thicker cream to get optimal skin hydration."
For more than 20 years, Happi has reported on the beauty industry's efforts to combat melanoma. Pharmaceutical companies have reported success on a melanoma vaccine, too. And, of course, Happi Columnist Nadim Shaath, PhD, has written extensively on the dangers of melanoma.
A = Asymmetry – one half is unlike the other half
B = Border – the mole has an irregular, scalloped or poorly defined border
C = Color – is varied from one area to another; has shades of tan, brown or black, or is sometimes white, red, or blue
D = Diameter – melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, but they can be smaller
E = Evolving – a mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape or color
If consumers notice a spot that is different from others, or that changes, itches or bleeds, they should contact a board-certified dermatologist. And of course, everyone should wear sunscreen on a regular basis.
"As summer approaches, your skin care routine can change. The single most important product to use is sunscreen. SPF should be 30 or higher and should be applied every two hours when exposed to the sun," said Dermatologist Shari Sperling. "During summer months when it is hot outside, you can switch to a lighter moisturizer that is thinner. During winter months you may be using a thicker cream to get optimal skin hydration."
For more than 20 years, Happi has reported on the beauty industry's efforts to combat melanoma. Pharmaceutical companies have reported success on a melanoma vaccine, too. And, of course, Happi Columnist Nadim Shaath, PhD, has written extensively on the dangers of melanoma.