Skin Care
Dermatologist Offers Tips to Reduce Skin Cancer Risk
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Apr 20, 2015 - 12:58:38 PM

(HealthNewsDigest.com) - New York, NY (April 20, 2015) -- How much sun is too much?  How little is not enough?  Is staying out of the sun depriving me of Vitamin D?  Are tanning beds ever safe?  What sort of sunglasses are really protective?  Is it true that you can get melanoma between your toes?  If I am dark-skinned do I need to worry about the sun?

"Despite studies, articles, and media coverage of the risk factors for melanoma, many are still uncertain of exactly what to do when the sun is shining," says Dr. Barney Kenet, Author of Saving Your Skin, A Layperson's Guide to Melanoma, and a leading New York City dermatologist, offers the following tips:

1. Vitamin D- Vitamin D is important for bone health.  And, there is no question that the sun is a great source of Vitamin D.  But, you don't need to bake in the sun to reap its benefits.  The normal exposure from just being outside as part of your daily routine is usually adequate for most individuals. Fish and fish oils, such as cod liver oil, are good sources of Vitamin D.  Milk is often fortified with Vitamin D.  And, soymilk is another source.  In addition, Vitamin D supplements can be purchased over the counter.  Bottom line: You don't need to sacrifice your skin to support your bones.  You can protect both.
2. Check out your skin- Don't just check the areas that are regularly exposed to the sun, such as your face.  Check out areas such as behind your ears and between your toes and your scalp. It helps to have someone do the looking in places where you can't get an adequate look.  Bottom line:  Also, check where the sun doesn't shine.
3. Sunglasses- Sure they've become a fashion must.  But, don't forget what they're really for - sun protection for your eyes.  Ocular melanoma is a real risk especially for people with light eyes.  To help ensure that your sunglasses will adequately protect your eyes, be sure your sunglasses block out 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays.  The American Optometric Association (AOA) offers details on sun protection for your eyes at www.aoa.org.  Bottom line:  Don't sacrifice function for fashion.
4. Tanning Beds- They are not the answer to getting a safe tan.  There is no safe tan.  While you may be tempted to go to a tanning salon before a big event, such as a wedding, prom or special date, resist the temptation.  Teens are especially at risk since they are increasing their lifetime exposure by starting young.   Try one of the spray-on tanning products, such as L'Oreal Paris Sublime Properfect Salon Airbrush Self-Tanning Mist, Medium Natural Tan or Nature's Gate Sunless Tanner Self-Tanning Lotion.  Bottom line:  Just say no to tan beds.
5. Skin Tone- While it is true that fair-skinned people are at highest risk for melanoma, olive-skinned and dark-skinned people are also at risk.   Among African-Americans, melanomas occur mainly on body sites that are not pigmented, such as the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, and the skin beneath the nails. Bottom line:   Everyone needs to be concerned about skin cancer.
6. Sunscreen- The most important point with respect to sunscreen is consistency and reapplication.  Chose a product that you can wear throughout the day without feeling sticky or uncomfortable.   Beginning this summer, sunscreens that are approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) will be labeled as providing "Broad Spectrum Protection."  Bottom Line:  Wear sun screen every day.
7. Cover-ups- While it's not necessary to be covered from head to toe when going out every day, it is important to take some precautions.  If possible, avoid exposing your skin during midday when the sun is at its highest point.  Use large hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas at the beach.  Wear protective gear for winter sports.  Bottom Line:   Think about how clothing and accessories can protect you from the sun.
8. Don't forget Fido- Yes, dogs get melanoma.  Melanoma is a very common type of cancer in dogs, but rare in cats.  Make sure to bring your dog to the vet if you see any unusual growths.

Dr. Barney Kenet
Dr. Barney Kenet, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, specializes in cosmetic dermatology and in the diagnosis of melanoma and other skin cancers.  Dr. Kenet received his medical degree from Brown University and his post-graduate training at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

In private practice in Manhattan, for over 20 years, Dr. Kenet has been on New York Magazine's Best Doctor's list and is featured in the Castle Connolly Guide to New York's Top Doctors.  He is the author of numerous books, articles and papers in his field and served as the editor of the journal, Skin, Inc., and the publisher of Fitzpatrick's Journal of Clinical Dermatology.  He is currently president of the American Melanoma Foundation.  A new and updated edition of his book "How to Wash Your Face" is scheduled to be published later this year. 

As a clinical and research dermatologist, Dr. Kenet brings a special expertise to the field of cosmetic dermatology.  KenetMD Skin Care, developed by Dr. Kenet and his wife Patricia Lawler Kenet, features a line of botanically based products designed to "cross-train your skin." Dr. Kenet is also the developer of a line of skin and hair care products which are part of the amenities collection available to guests of Hyatt Hotels around the world.

Dr. Kenet is committed to advancing dermatology and to providing his patients with sensitive, practical and no-nonsense guidance on keeping their skin healthy and attractive.   He is widely recognized for non-invasive, natural results with minimal downtime.  Vogue has referred to him as "legendary."  

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