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Skin cancer prevention: Your daily shield
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide – and yet it is avoidable in about 90% of cases. By consciously protecting your skin and checking it regularly, you lay the foundation for lifelong skin health and preserve your glow beyond the holiday season.
Black vs. white skin cancer: Two sides of the same coin
Malignant melanoma (black skin cancer) is rarer but dangerous because it can spread quickly. In contrast, basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas grow more slowly and metastasize less often but can be locally destructive. Both forms are significantly promoted by UV radiation – and are therefore preventable through good prevention.
Sun without regret: Your 365-day UV plan
Daily UV protection is not a luxury but a duty – even a day cream with SPF 30, better 50 (Link to product), can significantly reduce long-term damage.
- SPF 30+ daily: On all uncovered skin areas, even in the office and on cloudy days.
- Broad-spectrum filter: Look for simultaneous UVA and UVB protection.
- Head covering & sunglasses: Especially for sensitive areas like the scalp and eyes.
- Avoid midday sun: The highest UV exposure is between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- No tanning beds: They increase the risk of melanoma, especially in younger people.
ABCDE rule & self-check: Detect early, act confidently
Once a month – for example, always on the first Sunday – a quick check in front of the mirror is worthwhile.
Watch out for:
- Asymmetry: One side differs significantly from the other.
- Border: Blurred or frayed edges.
- Color: Multiple shades instead of uniform.
- Diameter: Larger than 5 mm?
- Evolution: Any change in shape or color.
Do you find new, rough, or non-healing spots? Then it means: better to seek medical advice sooner rather than later.
Professional screenings: When your check-up is due
Statutory health insurance covers a skin cancer screening with a dermatologist every two years from the age of 35. In cases of family history or suspicious moles, earlier or more frequent check-ups may be advisable. The earlier skin cancer is detected, the simpler and gentler the treatment – with significantly better chances of recovery.
Everyday hacks for extra protection: From nutrition to shade
A healthy lifestyle – in the sense of the Longevity approach – perfectly complements your UV protection and your checks:
- Antioxidant-rich diet: Berries, leafy greens, and green tea neutralize free radicals.
- Omega-3 fats & proteins: Fatty fish and legumes strengthen cell membranes.
- Shade: Better to sunbathe in the shade under a tree or under an umbrella.
- Stress management: Relaxation exercises and walks reduce cortisol spikes that can promote skin inflammation.
- Conclusion: Enjoy responsibly, live more consciously
Skin cancer prevention is not about sacrifice, but self-care. Every drop of sunscreen, every self-check, and every screening makes a big difference: they protect you – for a lifetime. Your skin is worth defending every single day.