Can you believe that it is the middle of November?! Here in Southern California the weather has been unusually HOT and DRY! But I know the weather is taking a turn for winter in many other places. Along with the cold weather comes warmer clothes and layering. Sun protection and skin cancer detection is still very important even if most of it is covered during these colder months.

As part of the legacy of Darren and Darren Lee Farwell Foundation, UV Skinz wants to educate people on the dangers of sun damage and how to look for the warning signs of skin cancer. Skin cancer is 100% preventable if caught early! It is in the best interest of yourself and your family, especially children under 18 years, to check for irregular moles all over your body on a monthly basis.

Most people have moles, but if you ever see a change in the color or shape–that is when you should see your physician. There is a simply way to look for signs of skin cancer, it’s called the ABCD Rule:

A. Asymmetry-One half of the spot does not match the other half.

B. Border irregularity-Normal moles are round or oval.  The borders of a melanoma may be uneven or notched.

C. Color-Common moles are usually one color throughout.  Melanomas may have several colors or an irregular pattern of colors.

D. Diameter-Common moles are generally less than 1/4 inch in diameter (the diameter of a pencil eraser).  Melanomas may be 1/8 to 1/4 inch, but are often larger.

Unfortunately, my husband is set in his ways and still tans at the tanning salon, but I make it my duty to check the areas on his body that he can’t see (back, neck and shoulders) for any changes in his moles. There are easy steps you can take to prevent skin cancer. Always avoid direct sunlight, wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats. You will have to reapply sunscreen every few hours, but if you are wearing your UV Skinz swim shirt (which by the way is not just for swimming) you will never have to worry about reapplying sunscreen!