Skin Deep - May is National Melanoma/Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Tips and the skinny on skin safety.

DATELINE: COHASSET AND PLYMOUTH, MASS…May is National Melanoma/Skin Cancer Awareness Month and the dermatologists at South Shore Skin Center strive to create awareness and offer important preventative tips.

As one of Massachusetts’ most innovative dermatology practices offering a wide range of medical, surgical and cosmetic services to a vast clientele south of Boston, South Shore Skin Center warns that it is the Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays that cause premature wrinkles as well as skin cancer with repeated and prolonged exposure. These rays are present even on cloudy days and exposed skin is left vulnerable without sunblock or sunscreen. The rays are also present in tanning beds.

According to the American Cancer Society (cancer.org), skin cancer is the most common of all cancers and Melanoma causes the most skin cancer deaths. They have estimated that there will be approximately 59,900 new cases of Melanoma in the U.S. in 2007.

Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body, but it often may be cured in its early stages. South Shore Skin Center advises folks to take these preventative measures:

• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and other UVA/UVB sources, such as tanning beds.
• Use ample amounts of sunscreen or sunblock with an SPF of 15 or higher every day, even if it is cloudy.
• Wear large framed or wrap-around sunglasses to protect the eye area.
• Have your skin checked by a dermatologist regularly.
• Note any moles or other spots on the skin that have changed. Have them checked as soon as possible.

Local Survey Results not Positive
Results gathered from a survey conducted by South Shore Skin Center at a Women’s Expo held a few months ago, indicated that many people are still unaware of, or don’t take seriously, the importance of sunblock/sunscreen in the prevention of sun damage to the skin. South Shore Skin Center surveyed 50 women and men ranging from 17 to 70 years old and learned that less than half used sunscreen on a daily basis, which raised concern among the dermatologists.

“With all the education and talk nowadays of sun damage, from wrinkles to melanoma, it’s surprising that there are so many people who don’t believe in the necessity of using sunscreen on a daily basis,” said Dr. Richard Eisen, founder of South Shore Skin Center.

He continued, “It’s important for people to realize that sunburn cells are associated with DNA mutations associated with skin cancer. The only real protection against skin cancer is practicing prevention by applying sunscreen daily, limiting time in the sun and altogether avoiding tanning beds.”

Pale is Chic
South Shore Skin Center has recently launched a “Pale is Chic” campaign to encourage teens and adults to adopt a “sun wise” attitude and forego the sun and tanning beds - for good health. The dermatology office will hold a “Pale is Chic” contest throughout June and July and will award three winning contestants with gift bags of the highest quality dermatologist tested and approved skin care products available – valued at $100.

South Shore Skin Center with Drs. Richard Eisen and Ramzi Saad
Founded in 1984, South Shore Skin Center is one of Massachusetts’ most innovative dermatology practices offering a wide range of medical, surgical and cosmetic services. Caring for patients with skin cancer and other skin conditions such as eczema, acne and hair loss in addition to providing cosmetic anti-aging treatments; spider vein removal; tattoo removal and other services. South Shore Skin Center physicians are committed to providing the highest level of service to children and adults throughout the greater Boston area.

South Shore Skin Center offices are located at 223 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Suite 202 in Cohasset, Mass. (781) 383-3340, and 45 Resnik Road, Suite 102 in Plymouth, Mass., (508) 747-0711. For more information, visit their website at www.southshoreskincenter.com.