Melanoma Monday 2020

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, with the first Monday being Melanoma Monday. I’m not sure if you’re aware, but my mother passed away from melanoma in November 2012. I try my best to help spread awareness of melanoma. I’ve walked in the Walk for a Cure here in Dallas every year since 2012 to help raise funds for a cure. Unfortunately, this year’s walk is postponed until the Fall due to the Covid-19 issue.

I’ve shared my mom’s story here on my blog (you can also put the word melanoma into the search area of the sidebar) and over on my Youtube many times in the past. Today I’d like to remind you of the seriousness of skin cancer and help you to avoid getting it in the first place.

Sun protection is one of the most important things to practice on a daily basis. Every single person should use SPF every single day. Teach your kids and grandkids so that it’s second nature to them. Unfortunately, I’m from the generation of baby oil and a deep dark tan. If only I knew then what I know now!!

The suns rays damage the skin in so many ways. Not only does it cause wrinkles, age spots and sagging skin, but it can cause skin cancer. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. It has the ability to spread to every single organ in the body. One in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. This may be melanoma, basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. The later two are most often not fatal.

What can you do to protect yourself?

• Get annual skin checks from a dermatologist. Early detection can save lives so don’t miss your appointment.
• Wear sunscreen with spf 30. I prefer to mostly wear physical sunscreen products that contain high amounts of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Apply your spf before heading outside and reapply at least every 2 hours (more often if swimming).
• Try to stay out of the sun during the hours of 10 am – 2 pm when the rays are the strongest.
• Do not get into a tanning bed EVER!

You can also wear clothing with UPF protection. I was recently introduced to the brand Cabana Life. One of the founders is a melanoma survivor. They offer gorgeous styles of clothing for the whole family that offer UPF 50+ sun protection. That means the clothing items block 98% of the UVA and UVB rays. How cool is that?!

I have 2 tops from their most recent collection. One is a performance top and the other is a rash guard. I’ve been wearing these every day when I go out for my morning walks. They’re both right on trend and I love knowing that my clothes are giving me extra protection from the sun’s harmful rays. They have everything from swimsuits and coverups to some of the most beautiful dresses.

Cabana Life was kind enough to offer a discount to my blog readers. Use the code MAKEUPOBSESSEDMOM and you will get 20% OFF your order of $100+ through May 10th. I’m sure you’ll be as impressed as I am.

Be smart and protect your skin and that of all your family members every single day. No excuses!

 

*I received these tops as pr samples. All opinions are mine and aren’t influenced by anyone else.