Stephie Estie | Page 36 of 39 |

Summer Makeup Product Ideas!

July 1, 2014

I never really need an excuse to purchase makeup-colors and textures are always oh-so pretty!- but summer brings a great reason to try out new shades and products. I compiled a mix of new and old products I think would work great for summer.

nordstrom; $65 each

Bobbi Brown Surf and Sand Eyeshadow Palette

The colors featured in these palettes sure do captivate the essence of the ocean. Personally, I would try out the Surf Palette as the colors are unique and season appropriate. Sand Palette can be used every day and year round as they are beautiful neutral shades.

sephora; $36

Tarte Golden Days and Sultry Nights Amazonian Clay Collector’s Shadow Palette

Smaller (and cheaper!) than Bobbi Brown’s Surf and Sand Eyeshadow Palette, this set is a simple mix of gold and bronze eyeshadows with a pop of color in between. You also get two matte shades that are perfect for blending out colors.

sephora; $24

Bite Beauty High Pigment Pencil

Absolutely L-O-V-E these pencils. Highly saturated with color, these will last you a while- on your lips as well as in the tube. They contain antioxidant resveratrol and come in neutral, bold and deep shades. Fun, bold shades to try: Zinfandel and Corvina.

drugstores, ulta; $7.49

Maybelline Color Sensation Vivids

At about half the price of Bite’s High Pigment Pencils, one swipe provides ‘notice me’ color. There are no neutral shades in this collection so be prepared for bold look!

macys; $20

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil

Long-lasting eyeliners with an impressive array of colors, you’ll find just about any shade you desire. These glides on creamy and albeit unattractively named, Chaos, Freak and Mildew are fun colors that can speak for themselves.

macys; $24

Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Push Up Liner

If you’re more inclined toward liquid liner than pencil, this may be one to try out. It’s waterproof and claims to facilitate application thanks to a custom angled tip. Anything that can make a cat eye easier is always welcome in my book. Note: For a limited time, Sephora Beauty Insiders may receive a free mini sample with any $25 online purchase!

sephora; $39

Nars Matte Multiple

Gotta love a 2-in-1 lip and cheek product that ranges from bronze to pink/coral. You can take it on the go and the matte finish is great for those who don’t want or need added shine. Can be used wet or dry resulting in a sheer or pigmented look respectively. Looking for a glow? You can try Nars The Multiple.

sephora; $12 mini/$24 full size

Make Up Forever Smoky Extravagant Mascara

Currently using and loving this mascara. I received this in the Sephora Beauty Insiders Birthday gift a few weeks ago and it’s amazing. Separates and defines lashes with ease and the best part is it does not irritate my eyes. It’s not waterproof but it does last.

What summer products are you looking forward to exploring?

Camping Guide 101!

June 26, 2014

School is out, summer is here and if you’re like my family, camping trips may soon make their way into your schedule. The outdoors can provide beautiful imagery, new perspectives, fresh air but also has some not so nice perks. Bugs attacking you from every angle or inadvertently providing a feast for neighboring critters is something I can do without. So whether you’re out on the road in an RV or truck/car, here are some suggestions on what to pack and some tips I learned along the way.

What To Pack

Mini First Aid Kit

Always a great item to have. You can pick up a few at your local dollar store for, well a dollar. Can’t beat that!

SPF Products

You’ll definitely want to take your broad spectrum sunscreen (make sure the cap is sealed tight- I learned this the hard way!), an eye cream with SPF (if you have one), and lip balm with SPF. Sunburn looks good on no one.

Travel Sized Bottles

You can take your cleanser, toner, moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner and bodywash in tiny bottles so you don’t have to lug huge bottles around, and in case they accidentally get left behind, no major loss there.

Unscented Towelettes/Unscented Baby Wipes

In case you don’t have access to a sink to wash your face, you can use these. A trick I used: I spritzed toner into a towelette and used it to remove the sunscreen, dirt and oil that accumulated throughout the day. Plus, they come in handy to wipe down surfaces, sticky/dirty hands, etc.

Mini Antibacterial Soap

Another good product to have when soap might not be readily available.

Medications

Make certain to pack your medication if you take any; there are little tiny plastic containers you can purchase to store them in. You might want to also keep Benadryl on hand in case of allergies and aspirin or ibuprofen. Some camping sites have small stores that provide these items but they tend to hike up the prices a bit.

Bug Repellent

My ‘perfume’ for the trip and a total life saver! There are also ones you can hang outside your tent- sorry bugs, you’ll need to find your victims elsewhere.

Warm Clothes

Regardless if the weather is super hot during the day, keep at least a jacket, an extra pair of socks, and pants to keep warm in case the temperatures decide to drop at night.

Tips

Do be sure to pack away any edible items lest you want to attract unwanted strangers. Trust me, animals can and will find a way to open bags and boxes. Store items in coolers or plastic containers and make sure to secure them.

Activities like hiking or fishing mean long periods of time out in the sun, so make sure to take along your sunscreen to reapply and prevent sunburn. Hats and sunglasses are great to take along too.

Keep hydrated to help control your heart rate and blood pressure as well as regulate your body temperature.

Nothing beats coming back from a day-long activity and firing up the grill to cook a delicious meal. One caveat? If you did get sunburned, the heat generated from the grill can further aggravate an already irritated complexion. Keep some aloe vera gel (and maybe some ibuprofen) handy if this is the case.

Camping or any other outdoor activity is always an adventure from making smores to setting up tents. Enjoy it, stay sun protected and safe, and embrace the experience- you’ll be home in no time.

What do you pack for your outdoor excursions?

SPF Lip Product Guide!

June 24, 2014

While we may protect ourselves with sunscreen from face to toe, what about our lips? Many of us forget about protecting our lips from the sun’s damaging rays, so I created a list of great lip products with SPF. From things you can find at your local drugstore or nearest Target to Sephora, perhaps you will see your favorites featured here or discover a new favorite one!

target.com; $2.99

EOS Lemon Drop SPF 15 $2.99 target.com

Summer definitely conjures up images of pitchers filled with ice cold lemonade, making this a fitting product for summer. Housed in a spherical container, this lip balm contains vitamin E, shea butter and jojoba oil to help keep lips smooth with a hint of lemon.

sephora.com, $22.50

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 (Coral) $22.50

I am a fan of Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment because of its hydrating, long-lasting nature that also provides a hint of tint. Coral is my choice for a fun summer color but there are other shades to suit your likes ranging from nudes, pinks, reds and plums. The one deterrent is the price so for me, it’s definitely a splurge item.

sephora.com, $7.50

Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25

Although this product is targeted for men, either gender can use and benefit from this lip balm. It’s moisturizing without feeling overly heavy and absorbs fairly quickly, leaving lips soft without much shine.

target.com, $1.99

Soft Lips Raspberry

I used to carry these with me all the time and forgot how much I loved them. True to the name, they keep your lips soft, and with a delicious raspberry scent and green tea extract, not to mention the great price point, you can keep them both or gift one to someone else. Unlike other lip balms, these are encased in a slender tube, making them less bulky and space efficient.

target.com, $2.99

Maybelline Baby Lips Moisturizing Lip Balm SPF 20

Although these are not my absolute favorites, I do like them. They do soften lips (albeit they don’t last long on me) and although the color range isn’t as expansive as the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatments, the price definitely allows for multiple purchases.

What’s your favorite sun protecting lippie?

Are You Cleansing Properly?

June 19, 2014

When you think about your cleansing routine, is it more like mere seconds of splashing water on your face to get over with or do you try removing every last trace of dirt, scrubbing away until your skin is left feeling raw?

While you may not give a second thought about cleansing, it actually involves a delicate balance that sets the tone for everything that follows after. Cleanse with something harsh that disrupts the skin’s natural pH and you can end up with a dry, tight skin that looks aged. Using a cleanser that’s too rich for your skin can result in clogged pores and breakouts.

Thoroughly cleansing with the appropriate cleanser helps keep pores clean, prepare the skin for other products, may contain ingredients to counteract various skin problems and can help certain skin conditions such as dehydration and sensitivity. Read below for a guide on cleansers and tips!

Types Of Cleansers

Oil-based/Creams

Cleansers that are oil-based can be good for all skin types and also aid in breaking down sunscreen and makeup. Actors and performers who wear heavy stage makeup can benefit from these types of cleansers as well.

Cream cleansers that are rich are best suited for mature skin that is dry; the emollients can soften dry skin and not dry it out.

Cleansing Gels/Foaming Cleansers–

These cleansers are are designed to whisk away oil and deep cleanse. These are appropriate for those with normal, combination, or oily skin.

Cleansing Lotions

Cleansing lotions (also referred to as milky cleansers) are like that of a cream, just with a lighter consistency. They can be used for normal, dry or combination skin.

Tips

Different seasons can call for different types of cleansers. Combination, normal and dry skin types may benefit from a cleansing lotion/cream in the fall and winter, but prefer an cleansing gel in the spring and summer when oil production is higher.

Tread cautiously if you are acne-prone and try an oil-based cleanser. Certain ones can make you break out

Use gentle, circular motions and avoid aggressive tugging or pressure.

If you use a spinning brush like the Clarisonic in conjunction with your cleanser, use it no more than three times per week to avoid irritation and wash well after each use.

Cleanse your face in the morning once and twice in the evening.

You don’t have to spend a large amount of time on cleansing- just enough to remove the accumulation of sunscreen, pollution, dirt, debris and oil. Trust me, your skin will thank you.

Father's Day Skincare Gift Ideas!

June 12, 2014

Men’s skincare is too often overlooked but can make a world of a difference-and a great Father’s Day present! So weather you’re still looking for gift options or you’re a guy who wants to step up his skin health, take a glance at some of the options below!

$52; sephora.com; getjackblack.com

Jack Black Core Collection

I’ve purchased and gifted this set several times and it always seems to be a crowd-pleaser. This trio includes a facial cleanser, shaving lotion and face moisturizer with broad spectrum SPF 20. It’s fragrance and alcohol free and perfect for men who want a simplified routine.

$38, ulta.com

Dermalogica Shave System

This shaving kit includes two shaving creams (Pre-Shave Guard and Soothing Shave Cream) which can be used alone or together to help soften the beard. Other items included in this kit are Daily Clean Scrub, an exfoliating cleanser which helps minimize ingrown hairs; Post-Shave Balm, which helps control oil and reduces redness that can occur after shaving; and Daily Defense Block SPF 15 is a matte sunscreen.

$22, dermstore.com/ PCA Skin Representative

PCA Skin Total Face Wash Face & Body Cleanser

A 2-in-1 product for men on the go! This gentle foaming cleanser is formulated with lactic acid to exfoliate, moisturize, and help prevent ingrown hairs and also doubles as a body wash in one easy step. Antioxidant vitamin E improves the barrier function of the skin; soothing aloe, allantoin, and bisabolol help to calm skin; and tea tree oil provides antiseptic properties.

$48, sephora.com; $56 ulta.com

Anthony Logistics For Men The Essential Traveler Kit

This kit features an array of products that are perfect for those who travel or for those who want to get a feel for the products. The Glycolic Facial Cleanser exfoliates and loosens dead skin cells to achieve a closer shave; the Shave Cream calms the skin and includes anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects; All Purpose Facial Moisturizer contains antioxidants vitamin C to brighten skin and vitamin E to help nourish skin; Invigorating Rush Hair + Body Wash incorporates Pro Vitamin B5 which promotes tissue healing in skin and helps to retain moisture ; Advanced Formula Lip Balm SPF 25 Mint and White Tea soothes, protects and conditions lips.

$20, sephora.com; theartofshaving.com

The Art Of Shaving Alum Block- Unscented

If you’re prone to nicks and cuts, this may be a product to check out. The alum block helps stop bleeding from minor cuts and delivers antiseptic properties.

Have you tried any of these products? What did you think of them?

I am always looking for and researching new lines so if you have a skincare line you use and love, do share!

Smile!

June 9, 2014

What’s a quick, easy, and free way to improve your appearance?

Smiling!

You can spend thousands of dollars on skincare items and makeup but if you can’t also master the simple technique of smiling, then you’re missing the bigger picture. Don’t get me wrong. I love makeup and skincare more than the average person-it’s why I choose to study it! But at the same time, what good does it do you to have all those products if you have a grumpy demeanor and outlook?

Case and point: Have you ever seen someone who was good-looking but had a scowl that would intimidate Disney villains? Their vibe yells out unapproachable and can repel others from wanting to converse or be next to them.

Smiling can change our mood and alter a negative viewpoint into a positive one. It can also help alleviate stress, boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, make you look younger, seem more attractive, and best of all, it’s contagious. A smile will draw and bring happiness to you and those around you.

So, smile and laugh because it’s your birthday. Because you’re alive. Because you’ve overcome obstacles. Because you helped someone out. Because it’s a new day to start over. Because you found time to relax. Because you have a purpose. Because you’re unique.

What is your reason to smile?

What's Aging You?

June 3, 2014

69 year-old truck driver whose left side of the face was exposed to the sun for 28 years.

By at least our 30’s, if not sooner, many of us start reaching for products that can help delay the aging effect. While aging is a natural part of life, if you’re seeing signs of premature wrinkles, take a look at this fact. 85% of skin aging is caused by how you live (i.e. sun exposure, pollution, unhealthy lifestyle).

Aging can be classified into two types: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic aging reflects genetic background and the passage of time; in other words, elements that are beyond our control. Extrinsic aging (considered to be preventable) is brought about by environmental or external factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and UV exposure.

Do you know which factor is responsible for expediting the aging process?

If you guessed the sun, you are correct (and have been reading my posts)!

By now you know the danger of excessive and unprotected UV exposure (skin cancer), but it also leads to photo-aging– a term used to describe the characteristic changes of sun induced skin.

Extrinsic, left; Intrinsic , right.

The image above depicts photo-aged skin (left) and chronological aged skin (right). See the dramatic difference?

Let’s take a look at how structurally these two pictures differ.

Protected From UV Damage and Extrinsic Elements

When age is caused by intrinsic forces, the skin has a thinned, smooth, clear, almost transparent apperance. There is also fine wrinkling, inelastic, saggy skin, increased dryness, slight flakiness, loss of underlying fat resulting in hollow cheeks and eye socket and a slowing of collagen and elastin production

Exposed To UV Damage and Other Extrinsic Elements

Aging caused by this will culminate in a thickened epidermis resulting in rough, leathery skin, telangiectasia (dilated blood vessels), yellow, sallow coloration and age spots. There is an increased risk of skin cancer and a degradation of collagen and elastin.

As you can see, how you will age is contingent on several factors, most of which are preventable. Sunscreen is and will continue to be one of the most powerful products in your skin care arsenal. The best news, it’s also the most cost effective!

Can Fat Help Dry Skin?

May 27, 2014

The dreaded F-word: fat.

Although many think fat-free is the way to go, if you find that not even topical ingredients help your dry skin, take a look at your diet. While fats are given a negative connotation, they are a crucial component of good health as it helps your body retain heat, lubricates the skin and assists in absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K.

Not All Fats Are Created Equal

So does this mean you can overly indulge in french fries? Wishful thinking, but no. Fried foods don’t make the cut. However, the benefits you’ll reap from the good fats just may outweigh this notion and allow for the occasional treat.

Enter essential fatty acids (EFAs). EFAs are acids the body can’t manufacture on its own and therefore need to be obtained through our diet. EFAs are necessary for brain and body development, metabolism, and hair and skin growth. At a cellular level, EFAs are important because cell membranes hold water in, and the stronger they are, the better your skin cells can retain that moisture. A deficiency in EFAs can result in dermatitis (eczema), reduced barrier function, scaly skin and increased moisture loss.

EFA Types: Omega-3 and Omega-6.

Linoleic acid is an omega-6 that is used to make important hormones and maintains the lipid barrier of the skin. Linoleic acid is found in oils made from safflower, grapeseed, sunflower, corn, soybean, borage and flaxseed but is also found in raw nuts, seeds and legumes. *It’s important to note that high amounts of omega-6 can promote inflammation, so low amounts are key. The typical American diet has an excess of omega-6.

Alpha-linolenic acid is an omega-3 that is a popular nutrient for healthy skin and reduces inflammation. The Mediterranean diet is high in omega-3. Sources of omega-3 rich foods include salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, trout, cod, fish oil, walnuts, flax, pumpkin seeds and algae.

Dry skin, for the most part can be reversed with topical and ingested supplementation. However, ALWAYS consult a medical professional and/or registered dietitian before implementing any changes in your diet to verify there are no contraindications with certain medical conditions or medications.

Do you notice a difference in your skin with certain foods you eat or don’t eat? Do share!

Disclaimer: The contents on this website, and any related links, are provided for general informational purposes and should NOT be considered medical advice. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. Please consult a healthcare provider if you have any questions about a particular health condition.

Sephora Sun Safety Kit Review

May 22, 2014

Sephora Sun Safety Kit, $32

Last week, Sephora released their annual Sun Safety Kit and I believe it is perfect timing since May is Skin Cancer Awareness month. Since 90% of skin cancer is caused by the sun, I love that this kit provides an array of sunscreens you can try out. This year, they included a lot more self-tan/bronzing products, which in my opinion is okay, but I would personally prefer more sunscreens. All products are great for traveling and you can toss them in your purse, making it easier to reapply. $20 of the proceeds go towards the Skin Cancer Foundation. Here is the breakdown of the kit, along with my thoughts and/or experience.

Sunscreens

Algenist Regenerative Anti-Aging Moisturizer SPF 20

This is both a moisturizer and sunscreen, which is great if you want to cut down your morning/afternoon skincare routine time. I find it has a slight medicinal-sunscreen like fragrance that while not overpowering, is prominent. However, the scent does not linger after it is applied. It feels a bit thick but it absorbed quickly into my skin and so far, has not broken me out. Ingredients like enantia chlorantha bark extract and biotin can help control oil and it does contain a bit of vitamin C. *Note: No synthetic fragrances are added.

Bare Minerals ready Touch Up Veil Broad Spectrum SPF 15 in Translucent

I really like that they included a pressed powdered sunscreen instead of the loose powdered one. Definitely not as messy. I also love that this is an easy way to reapply SPF, especially if you are wearing makeup. It also can work to keep shine at bay for those with oilier skin. It’s also formulated with antioxidants like green tea, vitamin C, vitamin E, and grapeseed oil.

Clarins UV Plus HP Ecran Multi-Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 40 Titanium Dioxide

This is a 100% mineral based sunscreen (titanium dioxide). Personally, this is not my favorite as it leaves behind a white cast on my face and feels like a heavy sunscreen. I do keep this in my purse though and apply to my hands while driving to keep them protected. It does contain two notable antioxidants, green tea and vitamin E. However, I also see that alcohol is listed as an ingredient but it doesn’t state which kind so it may be irritating to some.

Ole Henrikson Protect The Truth SPF 50+

I don’t particularly love this sunscreen but I don’t hate it either. The consistency is light-weight but it leaves behind a little bit of a white cast effect too. It’s easily covered when you apply your foundation on top though, works fairly well under makeup and it contains vitamins A, C, and E, which are excellent antioxidants. Another downside: There is a minute amount of fragrance added but it appears last on the ingredient list.

Origins A Perfect World SPF 25 Age Defense Moisturizer with White Tea

Another time saver in the morning as it is both a moisturizer and sunscreen. The scent is kind of herbal and citrus like and it does tend to linger a bit. The texture is lightweight and it is oil-free. The addition of white tea and resveratrol are great antioxidants and can strengthen the efficacy of the sunscreen. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a complete list of the ingredients online, so I can’t tell if it has any added fragrance. Bottom line: It’s good but not my favorite.

Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer All Day Moisture Defense Lotion Sunscreen Lotion

This sunscreen definitely smells like a traditional sunscreen and it does feel a bit heavier. While it didn’t make me break out, it tended to make my skin feel a bit more oily. *Note: It is a chemical sunscreen, so if you are sensitive to chemical sunscreens and are looking for a physical sunscreen (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide), you may want to skip this one. Noteworthy ingredients: Vitamins A,C and E, allantoin (a calming and soothing ingredient) and panthenol (pro vitamin B5 which is an humectant).

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream+ Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

Since the texture of this sunscreen is heavier, hence the cream factor, I think those who have a dry skin type would benefit from this. What is great about this sunscreen is that it has the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal Of Recommendation for those who are active. This means it “should protect the wearer from extended sun exposure, such as exposure received outdoors during recreational activities.” It has also been found to include a water resistance factor, although as with any sunscreen, you must reapply every two hours or so, especially when outside.

Sunscreen Oil

Supergoop Sun-Defying Sunscreen Oil with Meadowfoam Broad Spectrum SPF 50

I have not tried this one as I glanced through the ingredients and it contains coconut oil. Although coconut oil may work for some, it makes me breakout when I use it on my face. I feel this would really make me breakout and I would have to do more research on sunscreen oils. Not entirely convinced on this idea yet. It is also a chemical sunscreen and lists tocotrienols (members of the vitamin E family), argan oil, grapeseed oil and shea butter among other ingredients.

Lip SPF

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment Sunscreen SPF 15

I am glad that the kit this year included a lip product with SPF as sometimes we (yes, even me!) tend to forget about protecting our lips. Fresh Sugar lip balms in general are pretty moisturizing but fee light-weight. This particular one has a lemon scent, which is pretty perfect for summer.

Oil Control with SPF

Murad Oil-Control Mattifier SPF 15

I think this mattifier would work great on oily skin. It contains cinnamomum zeylanicum bark extract, which is excellent for treating acne; biotin and niacinamide, great for controlling oil production; and antioxidant vitamin E. My skin isn’t too oily yet, but I will keep this around and see how it works.

Bronzers

Dr. Denis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad Anti-Aging Exfoliating Self-Tanner with Active Vitamin D and Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Daily Glow Moisture

I haven’t had luck with self-tanner towelettes and this was no exception. In theory, this would be great because you receive exfoliation benefits as well as a nice tan. However, until I get the hang of how to use these, I will pass because they tend to streak and some areas are darker than others.

St. Tropez Self-Tan Bronzing Mousse

Of all the self-tanning products in this kit, I like this one the best. It’s a dark-colored foam that is easy to apply and you can actually see where you are applying it. I think this would work best on those who are fair-skinned. The color looked the most natural on me but I am still working on learning how to apply it evenly.

Stila All Day10-in-1 HD Bronzing Beauty Balm Broad Spectrum SPF 30

This is a BB cream with a bronze tint. While I wouldn’t use it by itself, I may mix it in with my normal CC cream to add a hint of color. It comes in a ‘universal’ shade, which by my experience won’t work on everyone. Fragrance is listed rather high on the ingredient list so beware if you are sensitive to it.

Tarte Brazilliance Self Rejuvenating Maracuja Self Tanner

Sadly, this didn’t work out for me. True to their claim, this did not turn orange, but on me, it looked muddy. Definitely not natural. I know the full size comes with a mitt so maybe that might make a difference. This does contain vitamins A,C, and E but is also lists fragrance towards the top of the ingredient list.

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Medium/Deep Matte Bronzer

Love this bronzer. It is a matte finish (perfect for my skin since it tends to get oilier in the summer), great for contouring or adding a hint of color, is travel sized and has a mirror attached on the inside.

You can purchase the kit at Sephora stores or you can ask for samples to try them out. I hope this review was helpful!

How Well Do You Know Your ABCs?

May 20, 2014

May is Skin Cancer Awareness month. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States…[and] over the past three decades, more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined.” Since Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR) is responsible for 90% of all skin cancers, taking preventative measures decreases your risk factor for this potentially deadly disease. Here’s what skin cancer is, the different types, what to look out for and guidelines to prevent it.

About Skin Cancer

Skin cancer happens when DNA becomes irreversibly damaged, giving way to the growth of abnormal skin cells that are capable of invading and destroying surrounding normal skin cells and tissues. When the damaged cells multiply, a visible tumor is typically formed.

The difference between a benign tumor and a malignant tumor is that benign tumors are non cancerous, they won’t usually grow back when removed, and the cells do not invade the surrounding tissue, whereas malignant tumors are cancerous, can grow back after they have been removed, and they invade tissues, organs and metastasize (invades surrounding tissue).

Types of Skin Cancer

Melamoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer because of its ability to metastasize and spread to lymph nodes, blood, distant tissues and organ systems. If it is detected and treated early, it is almost always curable, but if it’s left untreated, it can often be fatal.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

This is the most common form of skin cancer in the U.S. It can manifest itself like open sores, red patches, pink growths, shiny bumps or scars, or a brown or black lesion that could be mistaken for a mole. Considered to be the most benign form of skin cancer as it grows the slowest and is the least likely to metastasize, removal can lead to scarring or disfiguring.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous Cell Carcinoma chiefly affects the superficial layers of the epidermis (top layer of the skin). This type of skin cancer is characterized by a red, rough or flaky appearance and causes the skin to thicken. It is most common in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the rim of the ear, lower lip, face, bald scalp, neck, hands, arms and legs. 97% of SCC does not spread, however if metastasis occurs, scarring, disfigurement or death is probable.

Actinic Keratosis (AK)

Actinic keratosis can be a precursor to skin cancer that if left untreated, can develop into SCCs. The appearance of AK is rough and scaly, and they can be tan, red, pink or flesh-colored. Studies have shown that 60% of squamous cell carcinomas began as actinic keratosis.

ABCDEs of Melanoma

Asymmetry If you draw a line through this mole, the two halves will not match.

Border The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven, irregular, scalloped or notched.

Color Coloring varies from one area to another- different shades if brown, tan, or black- and it can become red, blue or some other color.

Diameter Melanomas are usually larger than the size of the eraser on your pencil ( ¼ inch or 6mm) but they can be smaller when first detected.

Evolution Any changes in size, shape, color, elevation or new symptoms such as bleeding itching or crusting.

Prevention Guidelines

Use broad spectrum sunscreen every day (SPF 15 or higher) and reapply every 2 hours or so, especially when outside
Seek shade, if possible, between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Do not burn
Avoid UV tanning and UV tanning booths
Wear protective clothing, hats and sunglasses
Conduct yearly exams with a dermatologist and self-exam

I hope this post was helpful and remember: when in doubt, have it checked out! It’s better to be safe than putting your life in jeopardy.