Sun Safety Wisdom From Dermatologists Who Fought Skin Cancer

When board-certified dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi was pregnant with her first child, a dark spot formed on her lower leg. Six months later, when the spot began to grow, the alarm bells started ringing.

“As a dermatologist, I knew that any change in a mole could indicate developing cancer, so I had it biopsied, and it was a melanoma,” she said. “I was 37 at the time and extremely worried, but the surgeon was able to remove it completely.”

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, with over 9,000 Americans being diagnosed with the disease every day. Healthy sun safety practices, monthly self-checks and being cognizant of the ABC’s of skin cancer (asymmetry, border, color, diameter and evolving) are always good ideas, but dermatologists warn that there are other things to consider that people might find surprising.

1. You can get skin cancer underneath your nails.

Though reggae music pioneer Bob Marley died of melanoma that started underneath his toenail, the nails are still an area where cancer often goes undetected.

“We most commonly see squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma under the nail,” explained Dr. Jennifer Holman, a board-certified dermatologist with U.S. Dermatology Partners Tyler. “Squamous cell carcinoma presents much like a wart under the nail, while melanoma presents as new, irregular or changing pigment streaks along the nail and cuticle.”

The problem with this location is that it closely resembles a bleeding wart, bruise or fungal infection, and many people don’t realize it could be something more serious. For this reason, cancer that forms under the nail can have a very poor prognosis, Tanzi said.

2. Just one session of indoor tanning can increase the risk of melanoma.

Holman, who was diagnosed with melanoma after noticing a changing mole on her stomach, attributes her diagnosis to her use of heavy indoor tanning in college.

“We know that even a single indoor tanning exposure can exponentially increase the risk of melanoma, and that women under 30 are six times more likely to develop early onset melanoma if they are indoor tanning users,” Holman said.

The reason? According to Holman, indoor tanning typically involves concentrated UVA radiation, which specifically increases the risk of melanoma.

“We typically think of UVB as the rays that cause sunburns, but UVA penetrates more deeply and increases that risk,” she said. “Skin cancer incidence is higher than that of any other human malignancy, and yet one of its root causes (ultraviolet radiation) is perhaps better understood than any other human carcinogen.”

3. Skin cancer in between the toes is particularly dangerous.

Though uncommon, getting skin cancer in between your toes is a possibility — and a dangerous one, at that.

“Melanoma, when caught early, has a very good cure rate, however, when it’s allowed to progress and spread down into the skin, it can be deadly,” Tanzi said. “Since people may not notice a changing mole between their toes or on the bottom of the foot, melanoma in these areas is particularly dangerous because it goes undetected for long periods of time and is allowed to spread.”

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, about half of melanomas are self-diagnosed — so if you notice a spot of concern, have it checked out by a board-certified dermatologist.

4. Sores or cuts that don’t heal could be a sign of skin cancer.

The most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. While the first two types are associated with sun exposure, melanoma can occur in some circumstances even without the sun.

“I hear patients describe basal and squamous cell carcinomas as a spot that bleeds more easily,” Holman said. “Typically, patients think they have a pimple, inflamed hair follicle or bug bite when [it forms], but they don’t heal and continue to grow and bleed.”

Remember that skin lesions that bleed or don’t heal over time are never normal, and can be a big red flag for possible skin cancer.

Just say no to tanning beds.

enigma_images via Getty Images

Just say no to tanning beds.

5. Not all melanomas follow the ABCDE rules.

While dermatologists typically use the ABCDE rules for evaluating changes to your skin — spots that become Asymmetric, have an irregular Border, new or changing Colors, a Diameter greater than a pencil eraser, or seem to be Evolving — this isn’t true of all melanomas, Holman said.

“Sometimes they don’t even have any pigment at all — the main thing to look out for is any spot, even if you aren’t sure how long it’s been present, that’s changing or doesn’t heal after a few weeks.”

Early diagnosis is crucial for both the cosmetics of the scar left behind and the overall survival rate of the patient.

6. Skin cancer can be mistaken for eczema or psoriasis.

Especially in the early stages, skin cancer can resemble benign skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Unfortunately, this similarity can lead to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis.

“I have patients come to me thinking they have a patch of eczema or psoriasis, but they can actually be a superficial basal or squamous cell,” Holman said. “Both psoriasis and eczema (atopic dermatitis) can present as red, scaly patches, but if an area is unresponsive to traditional treatments or doesn’t heal or go away after a few weeks, it should be evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist.”

7. Skin cancer can occur in all skin tones.

While people with fairer skin types are more likely to get skin cancer, people of all skin tones are at risk for skin cancer, even those with darker skin.

Holman, who recently did a melanoma excisional surgery on a woman with the darkest skin type, said that unfortunately, melanoma is less suspected and therefore often detected later in darker skin types.

“About the same number of Caucasians and African Americans develop melanoma on the feet while Asian and African Americans most often develop melanoma on the hands and feet,” Holman said. “This is why there is a higher morbidity and mortality rate for melanoma in darker skin tones, as melanoma on the bottom of the feet, between the toes and under the nails is often detected at a later stage and as a result, can carry a higher risk.”

Inspired to stock up on sunscreen? Readers say these are the best.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

HuffPost Readers’ Favorite Mineral Sunscreens

Sephora

Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30

Alongside our readers, both Pamela Anderson and Hailey Bieber are fans of Summer Fridays’ ShadeDrops SPF 30 mineral sunscreen. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight, naturally radiant finish that protects from UV rays while also providing nourishing ingredients to the skin. Made with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients, this sunscreen is formulated with zinc oxide, squalane, chamomile and an antioxidant blend of vitamin E and ethyl ferulate. They work together to shield the skin from sun damage and to hydrate, soften and smooth the skin and protect against further damage from free radicals.

Sephora

Supergoop! Mineral Sheer Screen SPF 30

Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, recommended this reader-fave screenie. “This is a 100% mineral sunscreen product that offers SPF 30 protection,” Camp said. “The labeling also includes information about protection from UVA radiation, PA (protection grade of UVA), which many sunscreens do not report.” It also shields the skin from blue light. It’s completely sheer so you don’t have to worry about a white cast and has a lightweight finish that won’t weigh your skin down.

Amazon

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face mineral sunscreen SPF 50

“This lightweight, non-greasy product provides SPF 50 protection and contains zinc oxide as the active ingredient,” Camp said. It’s specially formulated with antioxidants to be water-resistant, is naturally sourced and dries down quickly without leaving a greasy finish.

HuffPost Readers’ Favorite Chemical Sunscreens

Sephora

Supergoop! Glow Screen SPF 40

High on my personal list of sunscreen essentials is Supergoop! Glow Screen, and I’m thrilled to see it is one of our readers’ top picks from our chemical sunscreen story. It’s what I reach for when I want a hint of tint and shimmer. It’s basically your skin, but better — plus sun protection. It’s available in four different shades and has a slightly heavier finish than other chemical sunscreens, in part because of the tint component. But since it essentially replaces foundation for me, I don’t mind that it isn’t as lightweight as others. The pearlescent finish gives skin an immediate glow while hyaluronic acid and niacinamide hydrate, nurture and help to diminish the look of common signs of aging. This was also a top reader pick from our article featuring sunscreens with anti-aging ingredients!

Dermstore

SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense sunscreen

Along with the rest of the SkinCeuticals line, HuffPost readers swarm to this popular, luxurious sunscreen. Not only does the chemical formulation protect against sun damage, it claims to actively work to diminish the look of discoloration, helping to brighten and even out skin tone thanks to ingredients like tranexamic acid and niacinamide. Reflective pigments help to give the skin an immediate glow, making it ideal for someone looking to perk up their skin quickly and visibly. This was also a top pick from our article about the best sunscreens with anti-aging ingredients!

Stylevana

Beauty of Joseon probiotic SPF 50+

If you’re a fan of Korean beauty products, then you’re going to want to stock up on this gorgeous sunscreen. It’s wildly popular among the skin care set, with everyone from beauty lovers to influencers touting its skin-enhancing abilities. It’s my go-to daily sunscreen — primarily because it perfectly splits the difference between a fluid and a cream — and I’m thrilled to see it top the chemical sunscreen list of faves. It has a bit more grip than a fluid finish but doesn’t feel as heavy or oily as a full-on cream or moisturizer. I rarely get more compliments than when I head out wearing this sunscreen and a touch of concealer. As with all Korean beauty products, it’s important to remember to only purchase via reputable sites like Stylevana. It does take about two to three weeks to arrive, so I usually order two at a time to tide me over, but each tube lasts around three months, making it worth the already low price and shipping wait time.

HuffPost Readers’ Favorite Korean And Japanese Beauty Sunscreens

Amazon

Round Lab moisturizing birch juice sun cream

According to Flores’ previous article on Korean and Japanese beauty sunscreens, “this hydrating daily sun cream by Round Lab is lightweight, non-greasy and fast-absorbing and doesn’t leave a white cast. The broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula feels cool and refreshing on the skin and contains both birch tree sap and hyaluronic acid to help keep skin moisturized throughout the day.” It was one of HuffPost readers’ top three picks and with good reason!

Amazon

Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen Water Essence facial sunscreen

Shopping writer Tessa Flores pointed out in previous coverage that, “A prime example of water-based Japanese sunscreens, Bioré UV’s Aqua Rich SPF 50 sun essence is a feather-light and oil-free gel formula that feels virtually undetectable on the skin and is compatible with all skin types including those who are acne-prone. It’s infused with hyaluronic acid for lasting hydration and breathable protection that layers seamlessly under makeup.” No wonder HuffPost readers couldn’t get enough.

Stylevana

Isntree hyaluronic acid watery sun gel

Both Flores and myself have covered this reader-beloved sunscreen in the past. It’s great for people with dry skin and anyone who loves a dewy (not greasy) finish. I love that is white-cast-free and has hydrating ingredients including eight different types of hyaluronic acid to help strengthen the moisture barrier and keep skin hydrated all day long. It boasts a hypoallergenic formula that is great for those with sensitive or compromised skin, and has been a popular pick among K-beauty fans for many years.

HuffPost Readers’ Favorite Water-Resistant Sunscreens

Amazon

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk sunscreen SPF 60

If you’re as big a fan of French pharmacy beauty products as I am (and according to our data, you are), try La Roche-Posay’s various sunscreens. In my opinion, their Anthelios melt-in sunscreen is by far their most exciting formulation. This super lightweight SPF truly does melt into the skin, leaving it dewy, natural-looking and non-greasy while providing a whopping SPF 100 protection that is also water-resistant. Your skin will love it.

Dermstore

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense mineral sunscreen

Skin care devotees will likely be familiar with SkinCeuticals’ line of high-end serums and creams, but did you know that its sun protection products are just as effective and good for your skin? You likely do now, because this was one of our bestselling water-resistant sunscreens. This has a subtle tint that gives skin a radiant glow without leaving behind a thick white cast or oily residue. It’s a surprisingly lightweight mineral formula that is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and can also help to defend skin against environmental stressors.

Amazon

Vacation Classic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 travel size three-pack

I can’t get enough of the entire Vacation lineup, and it was the clear frontrunner for readers looking for water-resistant sunscreen. It has a really clean, lightweight finish that disappears into the skin leaving behind a delicious coconut-forward summery scent. It is easy to rub into skin and is water-resistant, making it ideal for all manner of summertime activities. It’s also packed with skin-friendly ingredients like vitamin E, niacinamide, banana extract, aloe vera and coconut oil that help to soothe, soften and nourish skin. You can’t go wrong with a three-pack of travel sized options from Amazon, just pop one in each of your bags and in your bathroom cabinet for easy access. Or you can purchase them individually and full-size at Ulta.

HuffPost Readers’ Favorite Sunscreens At Amazon

Amazon

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 sunscreen

You can’t go wrong with sunscreen classic, Sun Bum — no wonder it’s a HuffPost readers’ top pick at Amazon. This moisturizing sunscreen lotion is clearly a crowd favorite. It’s oxybenzone-, octinoxate- and oil-free, plus water-resistant.

Sephora

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen spf 40

This cult-favorite and HP reader-favorite sunscreen from Supergoop has a clear, lightweight and unscented formula so you don’t have to deal with an irritating white cast. It’s also oil-free and great for anyone who might have sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Amazon

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunscreen

Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer sunscreen is lightweight and fast-absorbing, making it especially ideal for use on hot summer days. It even provides up to 80 minutes of water resistance — no wonder it’s a popular reader go-to.

HuffPost Readers’ Favorite Sunscreens For Mature Skin

Dermstore

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light sunscreen SPF 50

According to Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist at MCDS Dermatology, “This ultralight sunscreen fluid is mineral-based, containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, but also offers a fast-absorbing, lightweight texture. It is easy to apply and also offers antioxidant protection.” It’s also one of HuffPost readers’ favorite options for mature skin.

Amazon

CeraVe hydrating mineral sunscreen SPF 50

Garshick noted that “[t]his hydrating formulation contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum coverage. In addition, it contains hyaluronic acid to help provide moisture, ceramides to help support the skin’s natural barrier as well as niacinamide which can soothe the skin. This mineral sunscreen is fragrance- and paraben-free making it a good option even for those with dry or sensitive skin.” Readers agree!

Walmart

La Roche Posay Anthelios XL 50 Anti-Shine Dry Touch gel-cream SPF 50+

Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama personally uses this sunscreen. He says it “applies easily and doesn’t leave the skin feeling extra shiny or sticky. It also doesn’t leave a white cast on my skin.” It absorbs quickly and has soothing antioxidant ingredients that HuffPost readers can’t get enough of.

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