Although it’s not officially summer, the sun is out and the weather is warming up. That means that your exposure to UVB rays from the sun is inevitable. These rays cause the skin to redden and blister if you don’t take the proper measures to protect your skin. Allowing the sun to damage the outer protective layers of the skin increases the risk of dry skin and skin cancer. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) said that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer at one point during their lifetime. 

There’s nothing like a relaxing day in the sun. While it’s important to swim in the lake or ocean, get a tan, throw a football, and enjoy snacks outside, it’s equally as important to protect the skin while outside the water. You may find it shocking that a recent study found that 46% of Americans never wear sunscreen. The same study revealed that 62% of Americans use anti-aging products. This is strange, considering that sun-damaged skin looks older, as too much sun exposure damages the outer layers of the skin. It’s actually better to apply a natural sunscreen daily to keep the skin looking young and healthy. 

Summer is around the corner, which means that sunburns are as well. The sun can burn your skin quickly if you are not prepared. Keep the following tips in mind to help you prevent sunburn this summer. 

Be Selective About Your Outdoor Time

If you want to keep your skin healthy and safe, avoid time in the direct heat, which tends to occur during peak sun hours. Generally speaking, peak sun hours range from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but these times may vary upon your location. If you are out on the lake or on the beach, water reflects the sun’s rays, giving you more sun exposure. Not only does spending time in peak heat increase the risk of sunburn, but it also makes you prone to dehydration. If you have to be in the sun during peak hours, wear sunscreen, light clothing, and a hat for extra protection. 

Apply Sunscreen At The Right Time

There are sunscreens that are both gentler on your skin and eco-friendly. They are reef-safe, meaning that they don’t damage the coral, which is dying or already dead in most areas of the ocean. Apply sunscreen about 15 to 30 minutes before you go outside. This allows the sunscreen time to set on the skin, and you won’t start sweating it off immediately in the sun. You should also choose a lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. 

Wear Sunscreen Responsibly

To piggyback on the aforementioned tip, you should wear the right type of sunscreen. If you are going to spend time near or in the water, purchase water-resistant sunscreen, otherwise it will wash away easily. Another thing to consider is that you should apply enough sunscreen to fill a shot glass when you first apply. Additionally, opt for non-spray sunscreens for your children. According to the FDA, spray sunscreens are discouraged for children because the chemicals can be inhaled and cause respiratory problems. Many people think that spray sunscreens are easier to apply, but they don’t apply enough and it’s easier to miss spots. 

Don’t Be Shy, Accessorize

Hats and sunglasses are your friends during the warmer summer months. While a regular baseball cap may suit you on a slightly sunny day, a hat with a wide brim that goes around the hat is best for peak heat sun time. Sun hats and farmer/beach hats offer wonderful protection for your ears, neck, and face. While all sunglasses are beneficial, sunglasses that have polarized lenses with 99-100% UV protection better protect your eyes and the surrounding skin.

Seek Shade When Possible

Naturally, an efficient way to avoid sunburn is to seek out shade. Depending on how shady the area is, though, you may still need to apply a layer of sunscreen for protection, especially if you are prone to sunburn. If you have fair skin, 15 minutes of direct sun exposure can lead to sunburn. A good rule of thumb is to spend at least as much time under cover as you do in the sun. 

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Not all skin lumps are cancerous. For example, cysts are usually clogged ducts or infections, and they usually go away on their own.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:17 Cysts
1:20 Benign Tumors
2:07 When Should You Be Worried?
2:44 Outro

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Men are twice as likely as women to get oral, head and neck cancer. The biggest risk factor to cancer is smoking, and men are more likely to be smokers. Tune in to learn more cancer facts on today’s episode of Fact or Fiction.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:34 You can get skin cancer on your lips.
2:23 Poorly fitted dentures increase oral cancer risk.
3:46 Chewing tobacco has a lower cancer risk than smoking
5:53 1/3 of oral, head and neck cancers have already spread to the lymph nodes by the time they’re diagnosed.
7:43 Outro

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There’s nothing wrong with brewing a fresh cup of coffee to get your day started. What if you ground some coffee beans and didn’t pour hot water over them, though? What if you incorporated them into a sugar scrub that helps exfoliate and nurture your skin? The beauty industry recognizes coffee as a beneficial skin care ingredient, and we’ll cover why that is in this article. 

Body exfoliation is an essential part of skin care, and a coffee scrub is one of the best products to benefit your skin. Depending on the ingredients you pair coffee grounds with, a coffee scrub will have different benefits. For example, pairing it with jojoba or coconut oils can help infuse the skin with more moisture. Not only does coffee help exfoliate the skin, but it also provides the following benefits. 

Reduces Cellulite Appearance

Although coffee doesn’t make cellulite vanish magically, it may diminish the appearance of cellulite on the skin. The caffeine in coffee works to dilate blood vessels under the skin and stimulate blood flow. That works to improve the skin’s appearance, making it look tighter by shrinking those small dimples. 

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Coffee exhibits a high amount of polyphenols and other anti-inflammatory compounds. According to research, the specific anti-inflammatory effects of coffee are attributed to chlorogenic acid, a compound in coffee. Including coffee in your body scrub, or other skin care products may help reduce redness, breakouts, or flare-ups on acne-prone skin. 

Works To Moisturize Skin

Some studies suggest that coffee bean oil contains essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid. These fatty acids are building blocks for ceramides, which enhance your skin’s barrier (the outermost layer). Not only does that help lock in moisture, but it also helps keep out irritants. Research suggests that coffee’s polyphenols work to reduce skin dryness and improve microcirculatory function. 

Anti-Aging Properties

Due to the presence of antioxidants and polyphenols, coffee works to fight free radicals to help enhance the overall appearance of skin. One study found that the caffeine in coffee helped reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and wrinkles in middle-aged women. Additional research suggests that coffee exhibits antioxidant activity, thus improving fine lines, wrinkles, and overall appearance of skin.

Protects Against Sun Damage

Can you replace your sunscreen with coffee grounds? Absolutely not, but studies show that the caffeine in coffee helps protect against ultraviolet (UV) damage. Some research notes that coffee may protect against sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer caused by sun damage. Researchers state that caffeine acts similarly to sunscreen and preliminary test-tube studies show it may help kill skin cancer cells. 

Bean There, Done That

Was that overly corny? Regardless of your stance on puns, we want to urge you not to throw away your coffee grounds after you finish brewing a hot cup of coffee. Save the coffee grounds and add them to your beauty regimen. As with so many other foods, coffee provides a host of skin care benefits. In fact, it helps reduce the appearance of dark circles under your eyes, which is why coffee extract is a common ingredient in under-eye creams.

Homemade Vanilla Coffee Body Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups white sugar
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 20 drops vanilla essential oil
• 1 tablespoon coffee grounds

Instructions:

• Add the sugar, coconut oil, and vanilla essential oil to a medium mixing bowl and stir well. 
• Add in the coffee grounds (fresh or used is fine) and stir well to combine. 
• Pour the mixture into some four-ounce mason jars and store in a cool-dry place. This scrub will last about two to three weeks, so consider giving some of it to a close friend or family member if you don’t think you’ll use it all in time.

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Short answer is no. Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. Indoor tanning counts for the speeding up of skin aging which can lead to skin cancer. Indoor tanning causes visible damage that results in dark spots and wrinkles. To prevent damage, it’s best to avoid tanning altogether.

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The great thing about homemade body butter is that you can select ingredients and formulations that cater to your skin’s needs. Not only can you experiment with texture, but you can also tweak the moisture content. Although some people enjoy having body butters that are specific to different times of the year, there is something special about having a body butter you can use no matter the season. 

This mango body butter contains four ingredients: mango butter, avocado oil, vitamin E oil, and arrowroot powder. The first three ingredients work nourish the skin, while arrowroot powder enables the body butter to have a more appealing, lightweight texture. Additionally, arrowroot powder helps you avoid a greasy finish to the skin after application. You just have to mix in the arrowroot powder after you melt, mix, and then chill the butters and oils that you’re using. It will truly give your body butter a luxurious texture. 

Mango Butter

Although scientific studies on mango butter are minimal, mango butter may be an under-the-radar anti-aging ingredient. Researchers have pointed out the many potential skin-nourishing benefits of mango butter, especially in regards to anti-aging, because of the compounds it contains. A high percentage of tocopherols (vitamin E) may help environmental stressors like visible light, UV rays, and pollution. Because it has a butter-like texture, mango butter is a powerful emollient for dry skin. Dermatologists agree that it forms a naturally occlusive barrier on the skin that not only protects it, but also hydrates it. Additionally, mango butter may support collagen health because of the large amount of vitamin C. 

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil contains lots of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D, and E, in addition to a few other minerals like potassium. These nutrients work to moisturize the skin, specifically the epidermis, the skin’s outermost layer. The antioxidants in avocado oil may help alleviate dry or irritated skin. Although it is not an eczema or psoriasis remedy, people with those skin conditions may help relieve symptoms via topical application of avocado oil. Lastly, some studies found that consuming avocado oil may help the skin retain its elasticity. More research is necessary, but initial research is promising. 

Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E oil is known for two key features: antioxidant properties and moisturizing properties. As a common ingredient in many moisturizers, vitamin E oil may help prevent dry, flaking skin. A 2013 animal study found that, when given vitamin E supplements, mice were less likely to develop skin cancer, even when exposed to lots of UV light. Studies on humans, however, have not found any skin cancer prevention associated with vitamin E use. For those who experience dry or itchy skin from eczema, vitamin E oil may help provide relief. One study found that topical vitamin E use was able to reduce psoriasis symptoms. 

DIY Mango Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 5.6 ounces mango butter
• 2.2 ounces avocado oil
• 0.1 ounce vitamin E oil
• 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder

Instructions:

• Melt the mango butter in a double boiler over medium-low heat. You can melt it in the microwave, but you have better control with the double boiler method. 
• Once melted, remove the double boiler from the heat and stir in the avocado oil and vitamin E oil. Mix well, pour into a heat-safe bowl, and then place in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. 
• Remove the bowl from the fridge and then whip the mixture using a hand mixer. Whip for about five to seven minutes, or until light and fluffy. 
• Transfer the body butter to your favorite container and then keep it in a cool place, using as needed.

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The environment affects your skin, whether you are indoors or outside. Ultraviolet (UV) rays, blue light, pollution, and more are environmental factors that cause oxidative damage to the skin. This process breaks down collagen and may even damage the skin barrier, which compromises the skin. A damaged barrier makes you more prone to dry skin, cracking, and damaging effects of environmental factors. 

UV Rays Are the Biggest Threat To The Skin

UV rays from the sun are the most significant environmental factor that can damage the skin. Not only do they increase signs of aging, but they also increase the risk of skin cancer. UV rays trigger the production of free radicals, which can surpass neutralizing antioxidants according to research. These free radicals can break down collagen and elastin, causing wrinkles and other signs of aging. UV rays also stimulate melanin production, which can cause skin discolorations. Over time, too much exposure to UV rays without proper protection can dramatically increase the risk of numerous forms of skin cancer, especially melanoma. 

Air Pollution Plays A Role

Not only can air pollution affect your breathing, but it can also cause free radical damage on the skin, just like UV rays. Exposure to particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and hydrocarbons can cause skin inflammation and oxidative stress. According to research, skin inflammation can impair collagen synthesis, which causes the skin to sag and wrinkle over time. The last thing you want is for pollution to chew up your collagen and elastin! 

If you want to take action to protect your skin from environmental damage, consider the following tips. They may come in handy more than you know!

Pick A Functional Powder For Sun Protection

If you are on-the-go, consider getting your hands on a functional powder. These types of powders have built-in SPF and are great options because you can dust them over existing lotions or makeup. They are great if you work in an office and need a little midday touch-up. 

Try A Mineral Sunscreen

If you spend time in the sun, dermatologists agree that you must wear sunscreen in order to protect your skin. Ideally, you want to use sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, both of which physically block UV rays. Chemical sunscreen may be invisible after applying on the skin, but they allow some absorption of light. That’s why skin care experts recommend mineral-based sunscreens to effectively protect the skin. They may leave a whitish appearance on the skin, but better to be protected than not! 

Consider Supplementing With Vitamins C & E

UV rays, air pollution, and blue light can all cause oxidative stress on the skin, a process that breaks down collagen and elastin. The best way to neutralize free radicals is by maintaining a steady intake or application of antioxidants. Vitamin C tends to work more efficiently with vitamin E, according to research studies. That’s why they are often together in different formulations. Vitamin C and E serums can help prep your skin in the morning, providing a natural defense that it needs to face the day. 

Opt For More Antioxidants

Not only do antioxidant serums have their place in the morning, but they also have their place at night. Opting for ingredients like glutathione and resveratrol can help repair damage that was done during the day. Resveratrol, which exists in grapes, peanuts, soy, and other foods, can sop up free radicals. Glutathione is another antioxidant that works to address dark spots, according to one study. There are many antioxidant creams or ointments that work to fight sun-damaging effects, but don’t neglect the consumption of antioxidants from colorful plant-based foods. Those do great things for your skin and other bodily systems and organs. 

Wash Up Carefully Before Bed

After being out and about all day, you need to wash off all that grime that the skin accumulates. Before you go to bed, use a gentle cleanser that works to both clean out pores and keep the skin barrier intact. If you use a cleanser that is too rough, then you increase the risk of skin irritation. 

Always Protect At Night

In addition to cleansing after a long day, you may want to apply other skin-nourishing ingredients before you hit the hay. Moisturizers or serums that contain antioxidants can help clear up environmental damage and support collagen production throughout the night.

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Tanning is a form of sun damage. Either way you choose to tan can cause skin damage, wrinkles, and cancer. It’s never too late to start wearing sunscreen. Sunscreen can also repair sun-damaged skin!

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Summer is a time for fun in the sun, and that calls for a thorough application of sunscreen. Sure, you may lather your legs, arms and face, but chances are you skip over some important areas, according to dermatologists. In fact, most adults require one ounce (a full shot glass) of sunscreen to cover exposed skin on the entire body. That said, most people only use 25 to 50% of that amount. 

Dermatologists suggest wearing sunscreen on a daily basis, regardless of the weather. If you go swimming or sweat while wearing sunscreen, make sure to reapply after drying off. The reason that you should wear sunscreen on a daily basis is to reduce the risk of wrinkles, sun spots, and the overall appearance of the skin. The Skin Cancer Foundation notes that if you experience five or more sunburns, your risk of melanoma doubles. Melanoma is potentially a deadly form of skin cancer, which is why dermatologists encourage regular sunscreen application. In fact, wearing sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher reduces your risk of skin cancer by 50%. 

Now, as mentioned earlier, you need to apply sunscreen to all areas that are exposed to the sun. Most people neglect the following areas when applying sunscreen. Make sure to get them to reduce your risk of skin cancer and advanced signs of aging. 

The Scalp

If you think that your hair protects your scalp, think again. The scalp is the highest point of the body and can burn more easily than other areas. That’s usually why your head feels itchy or hot the following day after being in the sun. To help prevent skin cancer, always apply sunscreen to your scalp and hairline. Although skin cancer on the scalp only accounts for 2-5% of all melanomas, you should still apply sunscreen as a protective measure. There are many sunscreens specifically formulated to protect the scalp without leaving behind a greasy residue. 

The Eyelids

The skin around your eyes is very thin, which makes it more susceptible to skin cancer, in addition to wrinkles and sun spots. According to available data, skin cancer on the eyelids accounts for 10% of all skin cancer cases. Many people don’t apply sunscreen around the eyes because of sensitivity issues. In order to avoid the sting, choose a mineral sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. You can also use an eye cream that contains SPF if you don’t want to use sunscreen. Lastly, don’t forget to wear sunglasses, preferably ones that have polarized lenses. 

The Ears

All the folds in the ears make them a little difficult to cover in sunscreen, but that doesn’t mean you should avoid them. Your ears get plenty of sun exposure, especially if you don’t wear a protective sun hat. Skin cancer can affect all areas of the ears, not just the tops and ear lobes. Make sure to apply sunscreen behind the ears as well because those are common areas for skin cancer development. Make sure that the sunscreen you apply is a broad-spectrum variety with an SPF of 30 or higher. 

The Feet

Obviously, you do not need to apply sunscreen to the soles of your feet. The reason for this is because a thick layer of dead skin cells offers protection. If, for whatever reason, you expose the soles of your feet to the sun, make sure to apply some sunscreen. The tops of your feet are exposed to the sun if you are not wearing full-coverage shoes. About 3-15% of melanoma skin cancer cases occur on the foot or ankle. Always self-examine your feet on a regular basis to ensure that you don’t have any irregular spots or moles. 

The Lips

As you probably know, the skin on the lips is very sensitive, which is why they are prone to dryness and chapping in the winter. Fortunately, it is easy to protect because you just need a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. Applying a lip balm with an SPF is a great step towards preventing the development of skin cancers and wrinkles on the lips.

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For people who live in extremely cold climates, the fall and winter months can be extremely challenging. The beginning of fall, however, is that pleasant transition between the hot summer and the inevitable frigid temperatures and snow-covered roads that are to come. People who live in warmer states don’t have to deal with the snow; rather, they just experience the same colder, dryer weather that everyone experiences during the fall and winter. 

When the weather is cold and dry and the inside air is dry from indoor heating, your skin suffers. Your skin needs moisture and while eating hydrating foods can help with this process, you often need to apply hydrating ingredients. The body wash in this article, for example, contains all-natural ingredients that work to replenish moisture and fight dryness. One of the standout ingredients is green tea, which contains potent antioxidants that fight the effects of aging. Several studies confirmed that green tea may even protect skin from skin cancer caused by sunlight. You can learn more about that below. 

Green Tea

Green tea fights skin cancer by promoting DNA repair. Researchers attribute this ability to the powerful antioxidant known as EGCG, which fights DNA damage from UV rays. As a result, EGCG may combat premature signs of aging, especially when applied topically or ingested. Green tea also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to the high content of catechins, which are powerful polyphenols. The polyphenols help to reduce redness, irritation, and swelling by hydrating and soothing the skin. Additionally, the polyphenols also offer antibacterial properties, which may help to fight infection and unclog pores. 

Honey

The use of honey in skin care is not a new concept, but recent studies confirm anecdotal evidence about honey application to the skin. One of the primary benefits of applying honey on the skin is the anti-inflammatory nature, which may help with skin conditions like acne or psoriasis. A 2017 study confirmed that honey from the stingless bee exhibited a strong anti-inflammatory effect, and other reviews support that study. An older study also notes that honey may help improve the overall appearance of the skin. Honey may just keep the skin looking young and prevent infections on the skin that contribute to early signs of aging. 

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has a reputation of being a magical elixir for skin and hair care. The number one reason that people love coconut oil for the skin is the fact that it promotes hydration. The medium-chain fatty acids work to reduce dryness and help the skin retain moisture. After applying coconut oil on the skin, it forms a protective barrier on the skin, shielding it from environmental toxins and pollutants. Similar to honey and green tea, coconut oil also helps to fight the effects of aging. Not only does it soften the skin, but it also works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

DIY Moisturizing Green Tea Body Wash

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons green tea leaves
• 2 tablespoons shea butter
• 1/2 cup liquid Castile soap
• 1/4 cup raw honey
• 15 drops essential oil of your choice

Instructions:

• Add the coconut oil to a small saucepan over medium-low heat and melt. Once melted, add the green tea leaves and allow this to simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Add the shea butter to the saucepan and stir until melted. Remove from heat and allow it to sit for five minutes at room temperature. 
• Once the mixture has cooled slightly, whisk in the remaining ingredients to thoroughly combine. 
• Pour the mixture into a soap dispenser and use when ready. Make sure to shake before each use. 

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