ve. It's been determined that skin does not have to be burned to be damaged, and such damage accumulates with chronic, everyday exposure (Encarta cdrom). There are two types of ultraviolet radiation that reach the earth: ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B. Both contribute to skin damage, and skin cancer, since there are no "safe" ultraviolet rays. The SPF numbering system on sunscreens was devised as a guide to protect against sunburn, which is caused mostly by ultraviolet B rays. Since sunscreens allow one to stay out in the sun longer without burning, exposure to ultraviolet A rays is increased, and many sunscreens don't protect against these rays. While sunscreens protect against "sunburn", they don't necessarily prevent cancer. If a person uses sunscreen to spend more time in the sun, the skin could collect about the same total exposure to damaging radiation. This is why most medical journals recommend staying outo of the sun at midday and wearing protective clothing and hats(Ladies Home Journal March 1999). Skin cancer is more common in people with light colored skin who have spent alot of time in the sunlight (Seely Stephens Tate, 149). Skin cancer can occur anywhere on the body, but is usually found at places that have a longer exposure to sunlight such as the arms,face, and neck. Skin cancer can look many different ways. The most common sign of skin cancer is a change on the skin, such as a growth or a sore that won't heal. Sometimes there may be a small lump which can be smooth, shiny or waxy looking and can be red or reddish brown(Seely Stephens Tate 149) . Not all changes however, are skin cancer. But all changes in one's skin should be brought to the attention of a doctor for a medical evaluation. Treatment involves removing the lesion. The goal is to remove or destroy the growth completely with as little damage as possible to healthy tissue. Types of surgery for skin cancer include cryosurgery, destruction of...
