Page 81 - South Mississippi Living - December, 2023

GIVING BACK
story by Lynn Lofton
As we strive to have skin that looks good, it’s important
to remember the health concerns of skin care. Since 1979, the Skin Cancer Foundation has been leading the fight against skin cancer. They’ve made strides in helping people understand the importance of skin cancer prevention, early detection, and effective treatment.
Amy Parker, medical aesthetician with Modern Dermatology & Aesthetics in Gulfport, says, “While
many teens and young adults are more cautious and knowledgeable of the importance of sun protection, we still see a higher incidence of skin cancers. But there is also an increase in self tanning lotions which are the safe way of receiving a tan.”
“Risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer include indoor tanning, sustaining frequent sunburns, unprotected exposure to UVA and UVB rays, genetics, atypical moles, history of an organ transplant or having red hair,” says the Skin Cancer Foundation spokeswoman Isha Vendantam.
“Most people do not realize that the sun exposure they received in their teens and early adulthood tends to show up in later years.”
The earth’s depleting ozone layers plays a role in dangerous sun exposure. “If it continues, climate change can lead to increased UV radiation and pollutants that
can cause free radical damage to the skin,” Parker said. “A study performed in 2019 stated that air pollution increases oxidative stress in the skin and can worsen premature skin aging and damage. The most relevant environmental factor for skin cancer is sun exposure.”
She explains the new trend for more organic skin care products. “Toxic chemicals in many products can get into
the bloodstream when applied topically and cause hormone disruption as well as other health issues. Topical probiotics are being introduced into skin care and showing positive results.”
Skin Cancer Foundation
www.skincancer.org
Modern Dermatology & Aesthetics
is proud to sponsor the Skin Cancer Foundation.
1245 42nd Ave. Gulfport, MS 228.864.8049
www.moderndermgulfport.com
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