Anyone can be at risk of skin cancer, and our lifestyle and daily habits that we sometimes overlook can contribute to it.
According to the Cleaveland Clinic, skin cancer is a disease that causes the growth of cells in the human skin tissues, and can cause harm to the other parts of the body if not detected early enough.
This article examines activities and habits that can increase one’s chances of getting skin cancer.
1. Inconsistent use of sunscreen
In Nigeria, some people do not prioritise the use of sunscreen which exists to protect your skin from the harsh effects of the sun and give you healthy skin. A good question is, how often do you apply sunscreen, especially when you’re out in the sun? In all that you do, don’t make the mistake of not applying enough sunscreen, using expired products, or choosing the wrong SPF.
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2. Using harmful skin-lightening creams
According to Medscape, substances such as mercury, and hydroquinone are commonly used to bleach the skin and they are incredibly harmful and can cause skin cancer; which could occur in [women] people who bleach their skin.
These harmful substances can make your skin extra sensitive to the sun and heighten the risk of skin cancer. There are healthier and more reliable options that you can use for your skin. Find a dermatologist who can help you understand these options better.
3. Overusing hot water on the skin
No one is saying you shouldn’t boil water to have a bath, however, it should be done in moderation. One might say, is it not water? How dangerous can things get with something as simple as water? When you use hot water to bathe all the time, it can break your skin’s barrier and weaken its ability to fight damage from the sun. To curb the risk of skin cancer, a healthier alternative would be using lukewarm water if you must, every day.
4. Frequently eating junk
Your diet plays a significant role in protecting your skin. Eating junk and ignoring healthier options, such as fruits and vegetables like oranges, carrots, or spinach, can make your skin vulnerable to damage from harmful UV rays and put you at risk of skin cancer.
5. Spending time around exposed fire
Being around fire in any form can harm your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. Some Nigerian homes cook with firewood or gas. However, frequent exposure to fire, heat, or smoke can hurt your skin.
Alternatively, you can use a well-ventilated space in your home and protect your skin from excessive exposure to fire and heat.
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6. Not drinking enough water
When you have dehydrated skin, it is more vulnerable to damage from the sun and other environmental elements. Staying hydrated is a wise and important priority because it helps keep your skin healthy and strong enough to fight against elements that can harm your skin.
7. Smoking
When you hear the word, smoking, what comes to mind? Damaged lungs? Smoking isn’t only bad for your lungs. It can also put you at risk of skin cancer. The chemicals in substances like cigarettes can hurt your skin cells, If you quit smoking, it’ll tell on your skin – healthy skin.
8. Less attention to skin changes
Have you ever seen a strange mole, dark spot, or wound on anyone’s skin that refuses to heal? A lot of people might ignore changes like this, thinking they’re not important or maybe something else. But sometimes, these could be signs of skin cancer. If you notice something different on your skin, it’s a good idea to seek medical help before it gets worse.
9. Stress and lack of sleep
You are at risk of skin cancer when you’re stressed and not getting enough sleep. It can weaken your skin’s ability to regenerate and heal.
10. Wearing tight clothes
Wearing clothes that don’t allow your skin to breathe properly can cause irritation or overheating. This can make your skin more prone to damage over time.
Above all, seek to lead a healthy lifestyle because everything you do can keep your skin healthy or put you at risk of skin cancer.
