As being an Esthetician and knowing the importance of SPF, I never thought I would have the dangers of sun exposure hit so close to home. I started really using SPF when I was in my early 30s, however like most of us, I use to love to lay out in the sun with baby oil on my skin and of course an occasional visit to the tanning beds. Not something I am proud to admit!
About two years ago, I noticed a small bump on my face, which looked very similar to a large pimple or enlarged oil gland. I did not think much of it and actually tried squeezing it out and then assumed it would just go away. After months and months of my very involved skin care routine and treatment plan, it was not getting any better, in fact it was getting bigger and more noticeable. YIKES!
Yesterday, I took the plunge and saw my very trusted dermatologist. I immediately showed him my suspicious bump, anxiously awaiting his reply. He gave me the nod and said, “Yes, Julie we should remove this today and send it off for a biopsy.” GULP! He proceeded to ask me if I have any family history of skin cancer. I felt extremely scared as no one in my family has ever had any type of skin cancer. The doctor numbed up the site and then scraped it right off leaving a big hole on my face! I was told it would take up to two weeks for the biopsy results and to make sure I use ointment on my new hole. WHAT THE HECK!
Last night, I fell asleep in my bed with my mind wondering and thinking the worst about this situation. What if I have a form a skin cancer, how far advanced could it be, what will happen to my children if I am not here, could this be in other areas of my body. OMG, did this happen from the SUN?!
The die hard facts are too much radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in our skin cells. If enough damage builds up overtime, it can cause cells to start growing out of control, which can lead to skin cancer.
I can not stress enough the importance of using SPF and reapplying throughout the day when exposed to the sun. It should be the most important part of our skincare routine. I will keep you all updated on my lab results!
