Summer Skin Myths & Truths: Part 2

May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month, so it's a perfect time to dispel common myths and fictions that are associated with sunblock, tanning and skin cancer. Check out the second half of the most common tall tales.

By Christiana Yiallourides

By Dr. Tina S. Alster, founding director of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery and clinic professor at Georgetown University

MYTH:

I don't need to have my skin checked I watch for unusual spots on my skin.

TRUTH: Everyone should have their skin checked by a doctor once a year. And not just any doctor, but a dermatologist who specializes in skin cancer prevention and treatment. It's critical that people do their homework and find someone who can provide the best care. Avvo is a free website that offers ratings and reviews of all the doctors in the US, including dermatologists. And because May is skin cancer awareness month, Avvo is donating $5 to the Melanoma Research Foundation for every doctor review you leave on the site.

MYTH:

The chemicals in sunscreen are bad for me.

TRUTH: Chemicals are only bad if you have sensitive skin. But now there are several non-chemical-containing sunscreens that do not irritate the skin and also have a wide range of sun protection (against UVA and UVB rays). Those with sensitive skin should look for products that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

MYTH:

I'm not at risk if I always tan and never burn.

TRUTH: Because the three most common types of skin cancers (basal cell, squamous cell, melanoma) are related to cumulative sun exposure, protection of the skin from the sun is imperative (regardless of skin type). In fact, skin cancers have been reported in patients with naturally dark skin as well as pale skin, so just because someone tans (rather than burns) doesn't mean that skin cancer is not possible.