Skin Cancer + Suncare Update
It’s been almost a year since I’ve given an update on skin cancer in my world, and I have a lot to tell you about!
If you are wondering why on earth I’m talking about skin cancer on a food blog, you can check out the following posts for the background (note: the first post contains some fairly gruesome pictures of surgery I had done on my face, so if you are squeamish at the site of stitches, you may not want to read that post).
What Happened to My Face: Why I Ended Up with 20 Stitches
Skin Cancer Update + Suncare Favorites 2016
It seems a little crazy that it has been over two years, December 2015, that I started down this road of skin cancer.
I feel very blessed and grateful that I’ve only had to deal with pre-melanoma and basal cell thus far. Basal cell is a non-fatal and very curable form of skin cancer. Melanoma is not.
Initially, I didn’t think I would ever talk about my skin cancer issues on here (hello, food blog!), but I felt strongly like I needed to do so, and I feel like a small part of that push to share has been so that others might have the courage and impetus to see a dermatologist or doctor for any concerning skin spots or issues.
Hundreds of you have acted on that (hundreds!), and many of you have found that those innocent-looking spots on your face, arms, legs, tummy ended up being skin cancer (while many of you found that you were in the clear – yay!), and you’ve been able to get the early intervention needed.
I’ve been beyond humbled as you have emailed and commented and told me of skin cancer situations in your own lives and in the lives of those you love.
You’ve sent me pictures and shared stories that have made me laugh…and made me cry, cry, cry.
So I guess this continued journey and story is important for me to share – even if it only helps one or two more people.
As for me and my own skin cancer experience, well, I’m doing pretty well.
I had shared in a newsletter in March that I had another suspicious spot on my nose (in the exact same spot as my first basal cell cancer spot!), and I was very worried.
After seeing my dermatologist several times, that spot has NOT continued to grow, and while my doctor will continue to monitor that area diligently, right now I’m in the clear in terms of new basal cell skin cancer spots.
I continue to go into the dermatologist every three months (and more often if I notice a concerning spot).
I also have some areas on my scalp my doc is keeping an eye on – apparently scalp melanoma is one of the most deadly forms of melanoma and can often be overlooked, so I’m grateful for his diligence (and if you happen to be someone that consistently gets sunburned in the same part line of your hair over and over, you should keep an eye on this area, too).
These days, this is what my nose looks like.
A little spotty. Still red and blotchy where the stitches were a couple years ago (and the white patch of skin the doctor pulled down from my eye area to mask the hole doesn’t really match my nose, but you get what you get and you don’t throw a fit, right?).
But overall, not too shabby, especially when I look at pictures from a year ago (like the one below; don’t worry, the parakeet didn’t eat me, like I was worried it would) and realize how well it has healed…or for a more drastic comparison, looking at the original surgery/stitches pictures. Wow.
When I happen to wear makeup, like powder (in addition to my minimal mascara and eye shadow), the scar is masked pretty well. Admittedly, I’m a very low-maintenance makeup wearer, and more often than not, I just sport my splotchy nose and cover it with sunscreen only.
But in pictures like the one below with my kids, you can hardly tell my nose and I had such a traumatic experience together, other than how it lifts and puckers slightly when I smile (which in all honesty DOES bother me a bit, but knowing how much scarring COULD be on my face, I’m willing to accept this very, very small lasting effect).
Granted, it’s not a closeup selfie, but considering I rarely take closeup selfies, I feel pretty good about things.
The area of my life that has significantly changed since finding out about the basal cell spot on my face is how I now live and manage my life (and my family’s lives) in the sun.
I know and understand that the skin cancer I’ve experienced (and will probably experience in the future) is largely due to sun damage in my youth, however, there are other studies (and advice from my doctor) that lead me to believe that sun damage even now (in my late 30’s) could cause an increase of skin cancer…and at the very least, damage like wrinkles and sun spots.
I am rigid (no better word) about suncare for my family. Sadly, I wasn’t quite as diligent before I had skin cancer myself.
I mean, we applied sunscreen every time we went swimming or were at the lake, but when we were outdoors doing yard work or playing, I didn’t always think about it.
Now, though? Sunscreen and suncare is at the forefront of my thoughts every day, and I’m training my kids to think about it as well, so they can be proactive at putting on their own sunscreen or recognizing if their skin feels like it is getting too hot and/or burning.
My kids all have wide-brimmed cowboy hats (got them at our local D&B supply store) for working outside (which is a nonstop occurrence in the warmer months as we manage our small piece of property and do yard work).
And I still wear and love my floppy hat that I talked about last year (links below). I wear it for working outside and even wore it all over Disneyland last year (and it accompanies me to the pool and the lake).
After being diagnosed with skin cancer, I developed an intense fear about being in the sun. It was impacting my mental health and my desire to spend time with my family outside.
It seems a little irrational stating it out loud. I shed a lot of tears about it as I tried to figure out how I could still operate like a normal human in public in the sun without compromising my health….and without stressing out to the point of making everyone miserable.
It’s been a process, but I’ve realized that as long as I’m armed with the right tools (good sunscreen, coverups, hats, UPF swimwear), it gives me a great deal of peace of mind and allows me to (kind of) be a fun mom and wife again, particularly because our family is very outdoor-driven in terms of work and play.
I’m sharing what products are working for us below, and I’m also giving an update on my super sexy (haha) but extremely comfortable, durable, and protective swimwear that I still use and love (and another newer brand find that is awesome, too).
There are affiliate links to products I’ve actually bought from Amazon below, but most of these products are available at local stores (sporting goods stores, or Target-, Walmart-type stores). Shop around, shop around!
Favorite Sunscreens
I feel like I have tried almost every sunscreen product on the market. The 100% zinc oxide sunscreens haven’t worked well for us (too greasy, pasty white residue, kids refuse) but I’m also leery of the all-chemical sunscreens.
My kids’ most oft-used, all-purpose sunscreen is Blue Lizard (thanks to those of you who recommended it last year; it’s replaced all the others for us!).
They use the Blue Lizard SPF 30+ FACE and the Blue Lizard SPF 30+ SPORT (waterproof).
As with all sunscreen, we reapply often if the kids are in the water or we are outside for an extended period of time.
Brian also uses the Blue Lizard brand. It’s non-greasy, super lightweight, and definitely our best all-purpose sunscreen for the whole family.
I use the Blue Lizard if it’s all we’ve grabbed to take out with us, but I’m super particular about what I put on my face in terms of sunscreen.
These are my favorites for outdoor use:
EltaMD SPF50 UV Sport (I use this on my arms, neck and legs) – I love this stuff; it’s spendier than other sunscreens but I’m still on my first bottle I ever purchased, so it lasts a long time.
{There’s also an EltaMD SPF 30+ which I haven’t purchased (and the ship time is delayed, it looks like), but the reviews are really good on that one if you want a lower SPF.}
EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 (I use this on my face if spending a long time outside in addition to the daily moisturizer with sunscreen I use day in and day out as part of my morning routine); this is super lightweight and non-greasy and the perfect facial sunscreen, in my opinion (I have the non-tinted one).
There’s also this EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen, which I love equally and is great for acne-prone skin.
I’ve also had good luck with this mineral redness relief from Paula’s Choice, but I like the higher SPF of the Elta products.
Want to know our coolest find so far?
This powdered sunscreen! It is amazing and has been a lifesaver for one of my boys who has some sensory issues with sunscreen on his face (read: he completely freaks out).
I’m probably the last to know about powdered sunscreen – where has it been all my life??
This is the sunscreen I keep in my purse at all times for a quick application on everyone if we are unexpectedly in the sun (and the clear powder is perfect for makeup wearers, if the thought of applying sunscreen over makeup is a deal breaker). It doesn’t leak and doesn’t get greasy and melty in the heat, which makes it a great option to leave in the car, too.
A little goes a long way, and it is refillable. My 13-year old wore it on his neck, ears and face for three hours yesterday weed-eating all along our electric fence line and didn’t get burned at all.
Favorite UPF Swimwear
I know the following swimwear is not for everyone, but it has been a lifesaver for me.
Last year, I wore this long-sleeved, ankle-length number every time at the pool or on the boat (the top, currently on sale!!, is kind of awesome because the crop top is removable if you just want to wear the tank).
Yes, I got stares. Yes, I had people ask my kids “is something wrong with your mom?” But I also was super comfortable and didn’t end up with one sunburn. And, every once in a while, I had someone come up and tell me they either were just diagnosed with skin cancer or had been in the past, and they wanted to know where I got my head-to-toe swimsuit from.
And let’s be serious, this 5-kid, nearly-40 mom bod isn’t that upset about being covered up with a bit of compression.
I love Coolibar products (totally unsponsored) and have talked about them plenty (I have several sweaters and other non-summer clothing items from them, which I love, as well).
Recently, I bought a swimsuit ensemble (this top in Beach Glass Desert Stripe and these swim shorts in teal) from UVSkinz, another UPF sunwear company (with a remarkable and bittersweet startup story). I’m planning on taking it to our family reunion at the beach next week; the top does require a swim bikini top or bra, FYI (shorts are fully lined).
Hats and Coverups
I have this coverup in white from UVSkinz and am already in love. It is well-made, yet still lightweight and breathable. I’m making no guarantees that I won’t just wear this on an average Tuesday at home instead of reserving it always for pool/beachwear.
As I mentioned in the post above, my go-to hat is from Coolibar, but unfortunately, it doesn’t look like they carry it anymore. Bummer because I wear it all the time! However, it looks very similar to this one or this one.
I also have this shapeable travel hat which can be rolled and scrunched to fit into a bag from Coolibar (haven’t had good luck with the hats from UVSkinz – WAY too small and weirdly shaped, IMO).
A couple years ago, I bought a lightweight athletic jacket from Coolibar – and when I say lightweight, I mean I can wear it in 100 degree heat without sweating to death.
I wear it ALL the time – spring, summer, fall, winter. It is cute (I have it in a gray/white geo print, which they no longer offer), and it is awesome for running out to the yard to water the garden, feed the chickens, or do some quick yard work without having to worry about putting on sunscreen.
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I obviously haven’t tested every suncare product on the market (despite what it seems from the above!), but I have been really happy with the products I’ve bought and kept (I’ve returned a lot of stuff over the years).
I hope the recommendations help anyone else who is searching for UPF clothing and great skincare.
Feel free to share any recommendations of your own in the comments below!
Mostly, thanks for your support over the last couple of years as I’ve navigated this strange, new journey of skin cancer and sun-stress and suncare for me and my family.
My call to action is simple:
Please stay safe in the sun this summer (and all year long!). So many cases of skin cancer CAN be prevented. Let’s prevent as many as we can, ok??
It might seem like a hassle to bring sunscreen along wherever you go or seek out the shade or pack a hat in the center console of your car all the time, but you know what they say…an ounce of prevention…
And, if you’ve been putting off seeing a dermatologist for a skin issue that is concerning you, don’t wait any longer! Make an appointment. Even if your doctor says it’s just a harmless vascular lesion (this just happened to Brian last week!), it’s better to go in and know for certain rather than let something harmful take root and spread.
I’ll be away from this little blog for about 10 days as we embark on an epic road trip through Utah, southern California and up to the Redwood National Forest (don’t worry, I have my hats and sunscreen all packed!), but please leave your thoughts and comments below, and I’ll respond when I can.
Love all your guts so, so much.
THANK YOU for posting this! We are moving to St. Croix (US Virgin Islands) in a few weeks and I was not looking forward to figuring out the good sunscreens! I’ll probably try to be a decent human/mother and do a taaaad more personal research, but SO glad to have good recommendations already! Especially since I am drowning in packing and house prep and all the joyousness that accompanies moving, let alone an out-of-the-country move… ugh.
As much as we are looking forward to constant sun, I know we need to be diligent with our skin and keeping our boys safe. Thanks for being so diligent and open about your journey!
Good luck with everything, Amy!
Mel, thank you for sharing your story and continuing to keep us updated. I hope you and your beautiful family are having a great vacation and enjoy your summer. Thanks for the skin safety reminders and links for great gear. Keep up the great work you’re doing. I’m going to be trying out that blueberry crumble.
Thanks, Kim!
Where do I start Mel ? I guess a big thank you again because your post two year’s ago prompted me and my husband to have a spit on his nose checked out by a doctor.. I’m not sure if you remember but the spot was basal cell and he had it removed earlier enough so he didn’t need 22 stitches like you. He still looked like a Mack truck ran over his face a few days after removal but that’s ok. Second, I would think that new fashionable bathing suit would let you eat a few more cookies, which is always a good thing. And I love that floppy hat!! Lastly,,
seriously, late 30’s ! Almost makes me not like you Continued thanks for the skin cancer updates and warning,s, and of course thank you for all your delicious recipes ! I hope you and your family have a great Summer! Lind s
I DO remember, Linda! I was so glad you shared with me while you and your husband were going through that. Haha about the age. I turn 40 in a few months and I’m kind of in denial. 🙂
Hi Mel,
I found your story very interesting. I had a very similar experience- I had a spot on my nose for ten years. It was biopsed and I was told it was not cancer. Many years later – it was basal cell. I had 3 layers of Mohs surgery. The whole side of my nose was “gone”. I was very fortunate to have a wonderful plastic surgeon. My procedure was similar to yours, A piece of skin was made into a flap and used to cover the side of my nose. I was surprised our results were so different. I had 44 stitches in a similar pattern but you cannot tell that I ever had surgery on my nose. I try to be good about wearing sunscreen, you are better at that that I am. I enjoyed seeing pics of your family. We had 3 boys before getting a girl, I would have tried one more time if the fourth was a boy. I enjoy your blog and hope you have no more episodes.
I’m glad you had a positive experience, Elisabeth! In hindsight, I wish I would have consulted a plastic surgeon, as well, but all things considered, I’m grateful I’ve healed as well as I have. Thanks for the comment!
Thank you so much for this information! You mentioned that you use a daily moisturizer with sunscreen every day as part of your normal getting ready routine. What kind do you use?
It’s Cetaphil (30 SPF)
I had skin cancer surgery on my face back in April–15 stitches. Have you had the blue light treatment? My dermatologist says that it greatly reduces the recurrence of skin cancer. I’m planning to have it in January. They tell me that my face will look awful for a couple of days afterward, but I feel that is a small price to pay.
I’ve heard a lot about that treatment, Sharon – but I haven’t had it myself yet. Good luck!
Thanks for sharing your story. I’ve had yearly DERM checks the past 10 years, but so far, nothing major. I had a few good sunburns in my youth. Do you see a need for your kids to get checked by a DERM? What age do they recommend? Also, I didn’t see in this post why you are selective with your sunscreens…the ingredients in some of them? I don’t think much about what I buy and wondering why I should.
I’ve been to your site here and there over the years, but I have SEVERAL friends who use your recipes all the time, and they say…”You know lots of bloggers, have you met Mel before?” To which I’ve said, “NO, but I need to now!” Maybe someday…;)
Hey Kristen! I’ve followed you for years (after Mariel told me about you waaaay back when). Anyway, you never know! I bet our paths will cross someday! About the dermatologist and kids, I’ve asked my doctor about that, and he says there is no need for a child to be seen unless there are warning signs on their skin – same as adults (moles changing color and shape, etc). I don’t take my children in on a regular basis, but none of them have had issues that need to be seen yet. As for the sunscreen, there’s a lot of discussion about using mineral-based sunscreens in favor of the chemical-based sunscreens (as those chemicals absorb into the skin and some studies show evidence the absorption of chemicals can be as harmful as the UV rays). I’ve hit a happy medium with sunscreens that are mostly mineral-based but not 100% (the 100% ones, in our experience, don’t absorb well so you’re left with white film and they are greasy). The website http://www.ewg.org has a lot of good info.
Thanks for sharing. I just ordered a swimsuit from UVSkinz and I am excited to use it this summer at the beach. Living in So. Cal I get to go often. Unfortunately, sometimes it takes a sad wake up call to make sun protection a priority. My father-in-law was just diagnosed with stage 4 skin cancer that has spread all over his body. Safe skin car isn’t cheap but it is worth the investment!
I’m so sorry about your father-in-law, Anna! I agree though, suncare isn’t always cheap, but it’s worth it in the long run.
Thanks again for the reminder! My dear husband has very sensitive skin and went in just yesterday to have a few spots removed and one biopsied. So between your article and his recent appointment, we are all about sunscreen now!!
You’re the best Mel.
Happy summer!
Hope all will be well with your husbands’ test results, Traci!
Thank you for the excellent article and links. Very, very helpful. You are looking amazing!!!! I appreciate the reminder to take this all very seriously, as we have two family members so far who have had melanomas removed. I wouldn’t mind if you brought up this discussion again in the future. Reminders are a good thing!
Thank you, Dee!
Hey, we live in the area and I am wondering who your doctor is. I had tons of sunburns as a kid, and should be getting checked out regularly. But the doctor I went to last time was very fast and didn’t seem thorough to me.
Hey Ashley, I see Dr Owsley at Comprehensive Dermatology.
Skincare in the sun is so vitally important. Thank you for sharing the products that you have found to work for you as well as an update on your journey. I am still searching for a lightweight facial daily moisturizer with SPF.
Have you tried the cetaphil brand? I really like that for my daily moisturizer.
Thank you for all the great product recommendations. I’ve been pretty diligent with sunscreen and hats for myself and kids for years but didn’t think much about what’s in the sunscreen. We are going to do better about the products we use and what we wear for swimming every day in our pond. I love that swim top!! And leggings are in for every other aspect of life–why not the pool too? Thanks Mel for taking the time to share what you’ve learned to help the rest of us!
Thanks, Melanie!
If you haven’t seen the truth about cancer. You really should watch it. I was diagnosed with stage zero melanoma on my leg. The experience was frightening and it left me in fear of it reoccurring, irrational fear…
Viewing the truth about cancer and reading related articles, changed my life. I realized that there was a lot of things that I could do to fight cancer other than wear sunscreen. Getting adequate vitamin D which may mean getting some sunshine for at least 20 minutes without sunscreen is important. As a dietitian, I also realize that I needed to work on boosting my immune system through adequate nutrition and Whole Foods. Fast forward, four years, I feel like I am in a better place physically and emotionally.
There’s some interesting information on a cream that is made from devil’s fruit, sister to the egg plant . Many use it on areas of concern for basal cell carcinoma. It had an interesting profile and good research to back it up.
Best wishes for continued health!
Jenifer
I actually bought that documentary a while back when it came out because I didn’t have time to watch it live (I have a past cancer history as well not related to skin cancer). Thanks for the reminder to dig out my access codes and watch it.
I’ve followed your “skin” posts with interest since I, too, had a basal cell carcinoma on my nose. (All good.) My experience led me to Asian products, as they have many very cosmetically elegant sunscreens. If readers (especially those who wear makeup) don’t like putting sunscreen on their face every day, they should look for something like Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence.
The best sunscreen is the one that you use!
Thanks for the recommendation!
Thanks so much for the recommendations. My family is very fair skinned and I’m always obsessing over sun exposure and looking for good products to try. Can’t wait to try the powdered sunscreen and higher coverage swimwear. If you haven’t tried it, look at the Thinkbaby/Thinksport family of sunscreen. It’s 100% mineral, but is really creamy and rubs in well…and is water resistant! We also liked Blue Lizard (especially the bottles that change color when UV rays are present), but I went back to ThinkBaby for my kids because it is all mineral based and has water resistance…and works really well at preventing sunburn. Blue Lizard is still high on my preference list though.
Good recommendation, thanks!
Thanks for sharing! Love that you’re spreading awareness. I wanted to mention corral reef safe sunscreen. Certain ingredients in many sunscreens are significantly contributing to the bleaching and killing of corral reefs. You can find more information here: http://blog.sailtrilogy.com/blog/is-your-sunscreen-reef-safe and here: http://www.vogue.com/article/reef-safe-sunscreens-oxybenzone-free-sea-turtles-environment-stream2sea among other places. Even us land-locked folks can affect the ocean. Everyone, please choose from among the”reef safe” options. Thanks!
Mel, I’m not sure where to leave this comment. I love the redwoods. Jedediah Smith is a beautiful park to camp at, hike in and float on the Smith River. Fern Canyon is beautiful but is down a long, curvy road. The Simpson- Reed grove is an easy 1 mile trail right off the highway. Oregon Caves is a cool place to visit if you are heading back towards Interstate 5, again the road is curvy but worth it. Crater Lake is amazing too but further inland. I think early summer is a good time to go to the redwoods because when the weather gets warmer there is more fog.
When we stayed at Jedediah Smith campground most sites require reservations but they had some campsites available on first come, first serve basis.
Thank you, Robin! I’m noting all this down (planning our trip as we do the first part of our drive to Utah and SoCal – we are staying at a lodge near Crescent City).
Seriously, where have I been that you’ve posted TWO posts about having skin cancer in the past and I missed them both?! Mel, thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I have huge regrets for excessive sunburning in my youth, too. I have light skin and I had some acne issues as a teen so figured that a sunburned face that all looked one color was better than a pale face with pimples (pale faces in the 70’s were not considered IN). So, I’m paying the price with my ageing skin, my poor neck! After reading (finally) all three of your posts, you have me looking over a spot on my wrist that bugs me and Yikes!, I don’t think my dermatologist looked at my scalp at all last visit. SO, thanks to you, I’m making an appt. next week. God bless you sister, for what you’ve been through and thanks for being so kind and caring, like always, to share with us this personal experience. I’m ordering some of your sunscreen recommendations now!
And is it bad of me to still think you looked beautiful even with your stitches and puffy face, but I’m so sorry you had to have this scare.
p.s. I’m hoping I wasn’t a totally idiot and wasn’t pestering you with blogging or chicken text-messages during this time. :\
Oh gosh, don’t worry, Sally! You never pester me. And I’m glad that you’ll be able to get in to the dr. I know I sound paranoid, but I believe in being better safe than sorry!
We use Blue Lizard and I love it! Our pediatrician recommended knowing I check the EWG rating:) It wins there and for sun protection…and I even saw at Walmart!
Sweet that it’s carried locally!
Mel thanks for all the great info. I’ve had basal cell twice on face and neck and just had squamous on my check. MOHS surgery was successful each the first time. You look great now. I bought some great clothes from Columbia brand sportswear. Keep up the great info and recipes.
Ah, good luck, Eileen! Glad the surgeries have been successful!
Hi Mel! I would be one of the people who visited the dermatologist for the first time after your post. Your skin cancer scare and my mom’s melanoma happened pretty close together, so I had more than one reason to go. Luckily for me, there was nothing to find on my skin….for now. While I’ve been very diligent about sunscreen for my adult life, I did have a couple of bad burns as a child. What bothers me the most as an adult with very fair skin is the amount of people that will comment on how pale my legs are or who will tell me that I should “just lay out to get a little color.” To me, what they’re saying is, “go ahead and put yourself at risk for skin cancer so you can fit in with our society’s obsession with having tan skin”. No thanks. I’ll keep my pale skin and hopefully remain skin cancer free.
I’m glad you are in the all-clear right now, Heather! And oh my gosh, I totally know what you mean. I get comments like that ALL the time (from people that even know I’ve had skin cancer in the last couple years). I always respond with “I’m going for the cancer-free look, thanks!”
I was diagnosed in 2002 with malignant melanoma…It was a Clark Level 2 and on the bottom of my foot…They got it all, and the crazy thing is, there was NO mitosis in the cancer cells. They were all dead or inactive or not doing what cancer cells do..I remember my doctor saying to me, “I don’t know what you eat, how you live or who you pray to, but whatever it is….keep doing it.” I am forever humbled and grateful that I was, in my opinion and belief, touched by the Lord…Both my dermatologist and an oncologist believe mine was caused by tanning beds, as everything that they checked that was exposed to natural sun was fine, this was on the bottom of my foot and I tanned regularly….No more that is for sure….
That is crazy that it would be on the bottom of your foot, Teresa! I am so glad that those cancer cells were not exploding and growing. What a miracle.
Thank you so much, Mel, for your posting in regards to this important topic. Of course this topic is near and dear to our hearts, as our brother, Mark Petersen, has valiantly fought metastatic melanoma. It’s a wicked cancer. Perhaps you have followed along the latest news on his condition on the Facebook page “Mark Petersen’s Updates.” If your message can prevent one person from experiencing the ravages this type of cancer can create, how wonderful that will be!
I enjoyed meeting you at the Mentor’s Gala last year and absolutely love your recipes. Thank you for all the great work you do!
Thank you for letting me know about Mark’s FB page – I didn’t know I could check there for updates! Thanks, DeAnn!
So happy you caught it early and got to keep your nose! You are beautiful!
Thanks, Tracee. 🙂
Thanks for sharing. I found out last week that I have basal cell on my nose. I’m scheduled for the MOHS procedure in a few weeks. I’m nervous about how much he will have to take out, but have lots of people praying for me.
I’ll add my prayers, Jen!
Powdered Sunscreen! WHERE HAS THIS BEEN MY WHOLE LIFE??? And thanks for the reminder/nudge to set up a dermatologist appointment 😉
I know, I know.
I had MOHS surgery in January for basal cell in the right crease on my face and am amazed that you cannot tell I had a ton of stitches…I would show you if I could post a picture of the hole and the healed area. I use Walmart’s Equate 50 Face as it is truly proven to actually be 50 protection and just purchased Blue Lizard to use now that it is pool season. Believe you me I get everything checked now. Glad to hear you are doing well!
Thanks for checking in with your recommendations, Judy! So glad you are healing well!
I like to buy my Elta MD on Dermstore.com. They commonly have a 20% off deal too.
Thanks for the update!
Oh sweet!
I had skin cancer on my stomach…it is was the real thing…melanoma…the spot was about
the size of a head of a pencil…when they took the spot…and found it was melanoma the cut out an 6 inch area all around where it was…and then pulled it together…I was lucky they got it all and no further treatments…it is a very dangerous thing..and many die from it each year…now I have long selves gloves and a hat…and am not outside between the hours of 11am and 5 pm…and I do a lot of gardening…this was 6 years ago so doing well but to your fans tell them to be careful…especially take looks on the back…Melanoma is a killer…!
Thanks, John – happy to hear you are doing well!
Hi Mel, I am so happy to read you are well and you look just beautiful (love those family shots). What great info you provided. I’ve been using Elta brand for many years (my derm sells it, along with many other very good brands). I find those better than drugstore brands. I also love Skinceuticals vitamin C serums, which provide great antioxidant protection against free radicals. Pricey, but worth it to me and I have been using them for many years, too. I just read my guilty pleasure, People Magazine, and they had Julia Roberts on the cover. She recommends Shade Sunscreen for her outdoor loving kids. It has a very high percent of titanium and zinc, and appears to blend well, but I have not tried it. I am also glad your derm checks your scalp. One of my close girlfriends has very fine hair and has been diagnosed with two skin cancers on her scalp. The doctor said probably from the area where her part is exposed. She has been through a lot with the hair loss and patchiness. Luckily her hairdresser spotted it the first time and told her about it–otherwise, who knows when it would have been discovered. Great tips as always. I hope you have a wonderful vacation with your family.
I think you are the one that recommended the Elta brand to me a while ago, Teresa! Thanks for the other recommendations! I’m terrified of having skin cancer appear on my scalp; my heart goes out to your friend.
Hi, Mel
Love the pictures of beautiful you and your beautiful family. Thanks for all of the great sunscreen info. You bravely told your story and showed us pictures (scary) and encouraged so many people (including me) to see the dermatologist. I am forever grateful for that. Stay well, stay happy, and please keep giving us terrific recipes and tutorials.
All the best always,
Pam
Thank you so much, Pam!
Hi Mel. Well, I hate to possibly rain on your parade but I have stopped using powdered sunscreen for a couple of reasons. Take a peek at these two sources.
http://www.thedoctorstv.com/articles/3388-do-powder-sunscreens-work-as-well-the-liquid-versions
http://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/faqs-your-sunscreen-questions-our-answers/
And although the first reference is from a tv show (not very impressive in my opinion), I have heard the study cited by dermatologists. So, in addition to not covering very well the nanoparticles present a risk for inhalation. I always say it’s too late to hurt me (in my 60s), but I would be more cautious with your kiddies.
Sorry, to give you the bad news, but it makes you think twice about those powdered sunscreens.
I work in dermatology and typically recommend that my patients use a lotion or cream initially before using powders or sprays for re-application if needed since they don’t tend to cover as well (with the exception of the Elta MD sprays which are more of a liquid or lotion that you spray on your hand and rub in). Spraying an aerosol spf onto your hand before rubbing it in can ensure that you are getting better coverage and can minimize how much you are potentially inhaling. However, if someone absolutely won’t use a lotion or cream, I will take what I can get as long as they don’t seem to be burning or tanning which is a sign that the powder or spray is not working as well as it should be (or you’re not reapplying as frequently as you should be). In general, most people don’t apply enough sunscreen (no matter what type they are using), or reapply frequently enough.
Thanks for the info, Sue!
I am a dermatology PA and I appreciate you sharing your experiences and recommendations. Many of my patients don’t listen to my advice until it’s too late! We are also seeing a rise in skin cancers in those who tan easily and don’t burn (such as hispanics), because they think they are immune, but this is simply not true – everyone needs sun protection!
You definitely want a broad-spectrum zinc oxide based sunscreen. Blue Lizard and Elta MD are also my favorite sunscreens. Elta MD has a new one called UV Elements that is my new favorite face sunscreen (it has a lighter tint than their other products), my favorite for the body is Elta MD UV Spray (I spray it in my hand and then rub it on – it feels lighter than the UV sport and rubs in easier). I also carry Sweat brand powder spf in my purse for re-application during the day (I prefer translucent for my fair skin). I recommend a minimum spf of 30, but it doesn’t hurt to go higher (I typically use spf40+). Remember that you have to reapply at least every 2 hours (but as frequent as every 40-80 minutes if sweating or swimming).
When it comes to sun protective clothing, Coolibar is a great company but their swim tights are a little short for me (I’m 5″8″), as well as a little loose around the ankles. I have purchased my favorite swim tights from Athleta (they tend to put out their swim tights 1-2 months after their other swim products). My favorite rash guards are from Lands End (I like that they aren’t too tight and they come in tall). I love how comfortable rash guards and swim tights are and it’s so great to only have to apply sunscreen to your hands, feet, face, and neck! Hats are important too – not only can sun damage in this area cause skin cancer, it can also cause hair loss.
If anyone needs further motivation – 80% of aging (wrinkles, brown spots, broken blood vessels, etc.), is the result of sun damage, so protecting yourself will keep you looking young!
Thanks so much for your recommendations and advice, Jennifer! I didn’t know Athleta had swim tights; I’ll have to take a look.
I get so vain sometimes and ditch the hat, in favor of the better-looking hair. This is such a great reminder! Thanks, Mel! Looks like I’m headed to Costco this week to buy that broad-brimmed hat that I scoffed at a couple of days ago 😉
Haha – it’s ok to be vain! Trust me, there are days I don’t want hat head…but my paranoia makes me power through. 🙂
My mom had the exact same thing a few years ago and it was awful! I have been super diligent about sunscreen the past few years now that I’m a mom, and the most surprising thing is that I still get tan! Win win for me. I also just found this great sunscreen for my face that is super light and feels like lotion. It’s neutrogena ultra sheer dry touch. I also like the sunscreen sticks for my small kids faces and we use the equate brand for everything else since it was rated highest by consumer reports. I also got an adorable sun hat from Costco this year that I have loved. It’s packable and much less dorky than last years version which I also have! The kids sunhats from Costco are also great and adjustable so we have used them for years! Thanks for the info!
Thanks, Haley! Hope your mom is doing ok.
Hey Mel! I went in to see the dermatologist for something I just was so worried about and he basically laughed because it was an oil gland that got plugged up and I was like, “Um well Mel told me to see you!” ☺️ Enjoy the road trip!
Uh oh! Sorry to make you paranoid! 🙂 Glad it ended up being harmless!
Thank you Mel for this post! I had surgery to remove some serious pre-melanoma a few months ago. For me I know it’s genetic. With this summer approaching fast, I have been looking for these exact recommendations for sun safety for me and my family. Thank you!!
Good luck, Melanie! Hope nothing comes back for you and your skin!
Just curious–what is your daily facial moisturizer with sunscreen? I use Trader Joe’s with spf 15 and love it but I’m afraid I need to go with a higher spf. I’ve tried several others with spf 30 and they’re so thick and greasy I always end up going back to Trader Joe’s.
Cetaphil Oil Control Moisturizer with SPF 30 is lighter than most (it’s made for people with acne, but anyone can use it). Otherwise, I really like the Elta MD products – they contain zinc, but don’t leave you pasty like most of the OTC ones.
I second the Cetaphil. I come from a long line of pasty Irish, but my face is sooooo oily, even at age 46! But the Cetaphil works beautifully at controlling it without drying up my skin. I even keep some at work to protect myself during long lines at the food truck.
Hi Mel, do the ankle-length Coolibar leggings stay tight or are they loose around the ankle? I hate when leggings get loose at the bottom! Or anywhere! Also, do they stay up or do you have to pull them up several times while wearing them? Any feedback would be appreciated 🙂
Coolibar swim tights are a little loose around the ankle for me – I prefer Athleta brand swim tights.
Thanks for replying!
Everyone is a little different – even though they are loose on Jennifer, they fit fine around my ankles (not loose, which probably means I have…well…thicker ankles!). I will say that of the couple brands of swim leggings I’ve tried, no matter the brand, once they get saturated with water, they’ve all sagged just a little (and gotten slightly looser), so if anything, I’d size down (especially with coolibar which run slightly large). Let me know if you have any other questions!
Thank you for this! Especially the sunscreen recommendations. SO helpful. It really is so important to lather our kids up with sunscreen a lot more often than we do.
Thank you for the reminder and for sharing your experience AND your beautiful family!
Have a wonderful and safe trip!
I have been looking for a sunscreen that was safe and not ridiculously expensive, so your recommendation of the Blue Lizard brand is so helpful. I live in a family of sunscreen haters, and hopefully this formula will make them less adverse to wearing it. Thanks so much for sharing your journey,
As much as I love the sun here in California. You can never be too protected from it! Trust me I know. Yesterday I had a 10th skin cancer spot removed over an 11 year period. Mostly I’ve had squamous cells but the last three have been melanoma cells. All early stage all treatable. So important to have skin checks on a regular basis. Stay vigilant in your skin protection. I believe most of my issues have come from exposure to the sun in my youth before sunscreen was a thing 🙁
Oh my, Susan! I’m so sorry you have had so many skin cancer spots! Good luck!
Hi Mel, you always have great advice! I cant wait to try that powdered sunscreen. My daughter has terrible eczema that flares up in summer months due to sunscreen and sweat. Do you have any experience with sunscreen with eczema? I was actually thinking of trying some of the SPF clothing too to help limit sunscreen application.
I am a dermatology PA – zinc oxide based sunscreens should be less irritating for her (Elta MD UV Pure is a good option – it has fewer potential allergens than most sunscreens). Vanicream brand also makes sunscreens that are free of anything that should cause skin irritation or allergies, but they can be quite pasty (you can find them online or at Walgreen’s). Sun protective clothing is always helpful too!
Thanks for all your helpful comments, Jennifer!
Looks like Jennifer has some great recommendations, Jen. I haven’t had experience dealing with eczema in regards to sunscreen. I hope you can find a good solution!
Thanks for all the info. Glad things are looking better!
I do not know how you find the capacity to do all you do!!! I visit your site FREQUENTLY for new food ideas and to revisit several tried-and-trues (hello buttermilk banana bread, mini meatloaves, spinach artichoke dip!). But finding the time to pull together all this really solid information on skin care and sun care…just outrageous!!! Thank you thank you for wrangling so much data and for providing a filter in the surprisingly wooly world of figuring out sunscreen. Also…I’m so thrilled to know that you are WELL and I think your skin looks totally healthy and beautiful. While I don’t know you in “real life,” I have very deep admiration for you and I just LIKE you. 🙂 You’re making a difference in the world, and I will pray God’s healing and peace for you and your (adorable!) family. Enjoy that vacation!
Thanks, cute girl.
As I was reading this I called my red-headed, blue-eyed, freckle-faced kiddo in from the sunny back yard and made sure she lathered up with sunscreen. We’re good about it when we’re going swimming, hiking, etc but everyday use is not in our routine. Thanks for the reminder that sun protection matters every day!
Thanks, Sarah!
This is such helpful information. Thank you!
It brings me to a question I’ve always had that I’m hoping you can answer: why do some people choose lower UPFs? I mean, why are they even manufactured? Wouldn’t the idea always be to use the highest possible? What is the drawback of a high UPF? Like, is it stickier or heavier or something? I hope you understand what I’m asking. I’ve wondered this for a long time. Why buy UPF 30 if UPF 70 is available.
I think that’s a really good question. In a lot of cases, I think it usually boils down to cost. Higher SPF sunscreens are often more expensive. I haven’t noticed a texture difference, but I’m sure there are some brands that are heavier and maybe greasier the higher the SPF, as well.
An SPF of 30, when applied in the appropriate amount, will block out about 96 percent of the sunburn-causing UVB rays from the sun. As you go up from there, you only see a very small difference — about 98 percent with SPF 50 and still under 99 percent with SPF 75 — there’s no way to block out 100 percent of the sun’s rays with sunscreen.
I work in dermatology and Jamie is correct. For me, it is worth it to do a 45-50 SPF. There is no proof at this point that sunscreens above SPF 50 do any more than a 50 would. You don’t need to spend more for an spf 100, but it also doesn’t hurt to use one. If you are referring to the UPF in clothing, I’m not sure if it tends to be less breathable, you’d have to compare on an individual basis.
I did mean SPF. Thank you for answering my question, Mel, Jamie, and Jennifer!
I bought the Coolibar hat you recommended last year and am crazy about wearing it in the sun! I just got back from Hawaii and the hat basically never left my head unless I was inside. I also wore UPF 50 swim shirts from Land’s End on days that were heavy on outside time (even if we weren’t swimming). It made me feel a lot better about being in the crazy Hawaiian sun.
Oh, and obviously I still wore a strong sunscreen, too 🙂
I’m so glad you love that hat as much as I do, Jessica!