Dermatologists are sounding the alarm on sunscreen application, emphasizing that merely applying it to your face might not suffice.
They’re pinpointing four crucial body parts prone to skin cancer: the backs of hands, ears, scalp, and neck.
Dr. Neera Nathan, a Harvard-trained skin cancer surgeon, highlighted these areas in a TikTok that garnered over 680,000 views, stressing that she routinely treats cancers in these neglected spots due to direct sunlight exposure.
Dr. David Kim, a dermatologist based in New York City, echoed these concerns, noting that ears top the list of forgotten spots for sunscreen application, closely followed by the scalp and hands.
During his training at Stanford, he frequently encountered skin cancers among outdoor athletes who neglected these areas.
Social media users reacted fervently to these revelations, with comments ranging from shock to newfound vigilance.
Many expressed surprise at the vulnerability of their scalp and ears to skin cancer, signaling a shift in awareness prompted by viral dermatological content.
Skin cancer, stemming largely from UV exposure, remains a pervasive threat affecting various demographics worldwide.
According to Worldwide Cancer Research, over 80% of skin cancers are directly linked to sun exposure, underscoring the critical importance of preventive measures.
Skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma vary in severity and prognosis.
Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, potentially preventing the estimated 20 daily American deaths attributed to skin cancer, a figure projected to surpass 8,000 deaths in 2024 by the American Academy of Dermatology.
Vigilance and Self-Monitoring
Symptoms such as discolored skin patches, persistent sores, and unusual moles warrant attention, aligning with guidelines from institutions like the Cleveland Clinic.
Monitoring moles using the ‘ABCDE’ method—checking for asymmetry, irregular borders, varied color, large diameter, and evolving characteristics—provides an additional layer of vigilance against melanoma.
Prevention and Protection Tips
Dr. Nathan advises comprehensive sun protection strategies, including the use of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, especially during peak sunlight hours.
For effective coverage, particularly on the scalp, she recommends using spray sunscreen, emphasizing reapplication every two hours for continued protection against UV radiation.