You should wear sunscreen. You know you should. You’ve read the headlines, you’ve seen the statistics, you’ve listened to the dermatologists on the news. You probably even know the numbers: 2 million people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year, and an estimated 90% of those skin cancers were preventable. The numbers speak for themselves, but if you’re like most Americans, nothing’s gotten through to you.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 68% of American adults do not wear sunscreen regularly. If that statistic doesn’t shock and appall you, think of it this way: Humans today have access to a magic lotion that prevents cancer, yet the vast majority of Americans choose not to use it.
Still not inspired to start wearing sunscreen regularly? Maybe these images, courtesy of skincancercare.com, will inspire you to change your ways. Here’s what inadequate sun protection can do to your skin:
1. Melanoma on your leg.
2. Basal Cell Carcinoma on your leg.
3. Basal Cell Carcinoma on your face.
4. Actinic Keratosis on your hand.
5. Actinic Keratosis on your scalp.
6. Squamous Cell Carcinoma on your hand.
7. Squamous Cell Carcinoma on your finger.
Have sunscreen-averse friends or family members? If you care about their health, make sure you send this their way.