Oncodermologist warned about dangerous mistakes when tanning

Common mistakes during sunbathing become a factor that can trigger the development of skin cancer. On April 9, Elizaveta Vasilyeva, oncodermologist at the SM Clinic, told Izvestia about this.

According to the expert, one of the most common mistakes is staying in the sun during its activity from 11:00 to 16:00. At this time, the skin receives the maximum dose of ultraviolet radiation in a short time. Even a short stay under active rays can lead to severe burns on the body, which are key triggers for the development of skin cancer. Episodes with marked redness and blistering of the skin are especially dangerous.

As the doctor noted, every burn is irreversible damage to skin cells (melanocytes). If a person gets burns all the time, the risk of mutations and malignant degeneration increases. However, many patients turn to doctors years after such "harmless" episodes.

"Tanning beds are a high—risk factor. Today it has already been proven that this is by no means a safe alternative to a sun tan. Artificial ultraviolet light can be even more aggressive to the skin. And frequent visits to the solarium are directly related to an increased risk of melanoma," the oncodermologist warned.

Another mistake is sunbathing without using sunscreens. As Vasilyeva explained, SPF is a basic UV protection, but it only works when applied correctly. A single application of the cream is not enough, especially in the active sun, it must be used on a regular basis.

In addition, when choosing products with an SPF factor, you should not rely on your own taste, it is better to consult a dermatologist. As practice shows, the recommendations of a specialist help patients not only choose the right remedy for their skin type, but also protect themselves from extremely dangerous health risks as much as possible.

Vasilyeva reminded that any changes in skin formations require special attention. In addition to self-diagnosis, it is very important to undergo regular checkups at the clinic for prevention purposes.

"Currently, dermatologists and oncodermatologists have not only a classic dermatoscope in their arsenal, but also more modern methods of examining moles. For example, the digital diagnostics of Photofinder. The system has a wide range of features for doctors and patients. First of all, it is tracking skin growths in dynamics and recording any changes," the doctor concluded.

Olga Shuppo, scientific director of the Grand Clinic network of immunorehabilitation, adaptive and preventive medicine clinics, said on February 4 that it is impossible to get enough vitamin D, even if you are often exposed to the sun. The fact is that its production from the sun occurs only when the skin turns red, and slows down as soon as a tan appears.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.