The risks of sun exposure

Sun exposure causes several changes to our skin. The damage from UV light occurs from a breakdown of the elastin and collagen in the skin, which are the fibers that keep our skin from sagging and stretching.

Some of the cosmetic changes include wrinkles, sagging and stretching skin, freckles and small blood vessel dilations under the skin. Sun exposure also leads to easy bruising and tearing of the skin, which means diminished and slower healing time. The cosmetic changes are typically not dangerous, but more unsightly for some patients.

There are many treatments to help with the aging changes to our skin. These treatments include prescription creams, microderm abrasion, photofacials, vascular lasers, and CO2 resurfacing lasers.

Precancers, also known as Actinic Keratosis (AK), are often found in individuals who have had sun exposure over the years. Over time, these lesions can turn into skin cancer called Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) if not treated. SCC is one of the most common types of skin cancer and can require surgical removal or more aggressive treatments if not caught early.

The most common type of skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), which usually results from sun exposure over time, and genetic predisposition. Treatment can include surgery or prescription creams. If not found early, more aggressive treatment may be required. The skin cancer that is most concerning is Melanoma, which is associated with tanning beds, blistering sunburns, and family history. Being exposed to UV light from tanning beds can increase your risk of melanoma by 75 percent. This type of cancer can be the most deadly, and is the leading cause of death from skin cancer. Idaho has one of the highest death rates from Melanoma in the United States.

As you pack up to spend time outside this summer, the experts at North Idaho Dermatology encourage you to plan ahead.

* Avoid UV light between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

* Use sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or greater, especially those that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. This is sufficient if you reapply every two hours and after swimming.

* Protective clothing, such as hats and long sleeves, are still the best protection because they don't need to be reapplied.

* Have regular skin checks to be evaluated for sun damage and skin cancers.

For more information, contact North Idaho Dermatology at (208) 292-5946.