Shop my Swim Look
May is skin cancer awareness month. This is very personal to me because I was diagnosed with Basal cell carcinoma when I was 33. Luckily, this is the least dangerous/aggressive type of skin cancer, but it still requires additional treatment. I noticed a red bump on my cheek and I thought it was a pimple. After months it didn’t budge, so I made an appointment with my dermatologist. They biopsied it and confirmed that is was basal cell. I was really surprised by this diagnosis because I have never tanned my face and have always worn sunscreen. Apparently, redheads are the most likely to get skin cancer. Lucky me!!! I had a procedure called MOHS surgery where they removed a dime sized area of my cheek. They use a certain technique to minimize scarring and my results were truly amazing!! Even though I’ve always protected my skin, obviously I wasn’t doing enough. After this diagnosis, I got really intense about guarding my skin from the sun. Here are some tried and true life practices for me.
- I get yearly skin checks at my dermatologist
- I never leave the house bare faced. I always have makeup with an SPF or at least a tinted moisturizer.
- If I’m going to be outside for any extended amount of time, I wear a hat and big sunglasses. It may seem like I’m just trying to be fashionable, but I’m actually protecting my skin and preventing wrinkles!
- I reapply sunscreen hourly!! I know it’s hard to remember, but putting it on once isn’t enough! I put an alarm on my phone. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your lips and scalp (or where you part your hair)
- And do I really even have to say this anymore, but for gosh sake don’t get in the tanning bed.
- If I need color for an event, I get a spray tan or apply sunless tanner.
- I have a huge collection of cover ups that I wear until I actually get in the pool! There are some really cute ones right now!
Here are some of my favorite skin protection products. I really love COOLA products because they are “clean” , work well, and smell amazing!
I swear by summer accessories to protect my skin and I’m fine with looking stylish in the process. Here are a few of my favorites!
I hope these tips are helpful as you hit the pool or beach this summer! How diligent are you about protecting your skin? As always, thanks so much for following along!
XOXO
Emily
