Protect your moles from sun damage this summer with these tips
Are you going on vacation? Remember to bring sunscreen. If you have many moles, make sure to protect them adequately. This is very important because changes due to sunlight exposure can lead to melanoma.
9:59 AM EDT, June 27, 2024
Moles are small pigmented spots that appear on various parts of the skin. Their color is due to melanin, a natural pigment in the human body.
Everyone has at least one mole on their body. They can be divided into two groups — congenital and acquired. Interestingly, they can be inherited. Although these changes are normal and natural, they must be protected from the sun.
How to protect moles
Congenital moles develop during fetal life and appear on the body over time, but their number is limited. In contrast, acquired moles develop suddenly. The most significant "outbreak" of moles often occurs in the summer when the skin is exposed to intense sunlight.
A significant and extensive outbreak of moles can indicate inadequate sun protection. Moles need protection from ultraviolet rays, which helps to avoid irritation and painful changes while allowing you to monitor the condition of your skin.
How to protect moles? Equip yourself with a good cream that guards against UVA and UVB radiation. Use it throughout the summer, applying it half an hour before going out and planning a blissful rest on the beach. Don't forget to reapply the cream. Depending on its strength, you should reapply it 2-3 hours after the initial application and after swimming.
Have disturbing changes appeared on your body? It's time to visit a dermatologist
Regular sun protection helps prevent the formation of new moles. Monitoring your skin's condition is crucial because certain changes caused by carcinogenic factors can develop into skin cancer.
In its initial phase, melanoma may resemble a mole—it looks like any other discoloration on the body. Over time, the change starts to spread, and there may be alarming redness or painful irritation around it. Don't be deceived—it's not a scratched mole but a serious change that requires consultation with a specialist.
If you notice such a change, immediately see a doctor. Don't ignore it, as melanoma is a dangerous disease requiring specialized treatment. Detected early, it is entirely curable. Don't delay — in this case, time is critical.
