Opinion: Being proactive with your skin health is not a luxury, it’s critical

By Dr Kenneth Wong (MBChB, FRACP) Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon at Skin Institute.

Summer is the season we all look forward to. Longer days, more time outdoors, perhaps swimming or camping and enjoying time with friends and family in the sunshine. But it doesn’t come without its fair share of risks. Unfortunately, more time exposed to UV rays increases the chances of sun damage to the skin and potentially even skin cancer. The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that can penetrate the skin, causing immediate effects like sunburn and long-term damage such as premature ageing, pigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer. UV rays can break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Moreover, excessive sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, where certain areas of the skin become darker than others.

To mitigate these effects, it's essential to understand the balance between enjoying the sun and protecting your skin. Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield against both UVA and UVB rays and wear protective clothing and accessories like hats and sunglasses when outdoors.

After spending time in the sun, your skin needs immediate care to prevent damage and maintain hydration. Begin by taking a cool shower to remove sweat, sunscreen, and any potential irritants. This step helps to cool down your skin and mitigate the effects of heat.

Next, generously apply a moisturiser with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile. These ingredients help to calm inflammation and replenish lost moisture. Drinking plenty of water is also crucial to rehydrate from within. For an added boost, consider using after-sun products that contain antioxidants like Vitamin C and E to combat free radical damage.

While mild sunburns can typically be managed at home, there are times when professional care is necessary. If you experience severe sunburn with blistering, intense pain, or fever, it's important to seek medical attention. These symptoms can indicate a more serious condition that requires specialised treatment.

If you notice any changes in your skin such as new growths, moles that have changed in appearance, or areas of skin that don't heal, it's crucial to consult a skin cancer expert. They can provide a thorough assessment and recommend treatments like topical medications, laser therapy, or other surgical interventions to address sun damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Almost 90,000 skin cancers are diagnosed in New Zealand each year, but if they’re caught early they’re almost always treatable. It’s important to be proactive with your skin health and seek regular checks to ensure that nothing of concern goes undetected. Whilst regular self-checks are a good idea, we recommend an annual full body assessment at a skin cancer clinic. It only takes around twenty minutes out of your day and is the best way to seek peace of mind, or catch something early – before it develops into a more serious issue.

For more, visit skininstitute.co.nz

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This article appears in our summer 2024 issue of NEWMARKET. magazine, for more, click here.