Skin Cancer Definitions

Skin Cancer is becoming more and more common these days, as we continue to expose ourselves to the harmful rays of the sun, it is only going to increase. 1 in 5 American's will develop skin cancer throughout their lifetime, meaning that you will probably know someone that will get skin cancer... it could even be you.

But, are you aware that there are several types of skin cancer? Read on to learn more.

Melanoma: Melanoma is a malignant tumor that originates in melanocytes, the cells which produce the pigment melanin that colors our skin, hair, and eyes and is heavily concentrated in most moles. The majority of melanomas, therefore, are black or brown. However, melanomas occasionally stop producing pigment. When that happens, the melanomas may no longer be dark, but are skin-colored, pink, red or purple. (Source www.skincancer.org)

Basal Cell Carcinoma: The most common form of skin cancer, are cells that line the deepest layer of the epidermis. An abnormal growth — a tumor — of this layer is known as basal cell carcinoma. (Source www.skincancer.org)

Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The next most common form of skin cancer. Squamous cells are cells that compose most of the epidermis. An abnormal growth of these cells is known as a squamous cell carcinoma. (Source www.skincancer.org)

These are the most well known skin cancers that you hear about all the time... but how do they get to this stage without us knowing? It is because we ignore the early warning signs, such as skin growths, lesions, changes in moles or freckles, anything on our skins that doesn't look normal, these need to be checked into to ensure early detection.

Skin cancer is one of the most survivable, treatable and preventable cancer's out there.

So, be more aware of your skin and if you are going out in the sun, put sunscreen on, cover up and protect yourself, it is not worth the risk.

Ok, so you know that sitting out in the sun is bad for you, but you like to be brown and glowing for summer... solution? Self tanning or sunless tanning...