May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

As your esthetician, this is something I care deeply about, not just for your skin’s glow, but for your overall health and well-being. Let’s talk about what you can do to stay aware, protected, and supported. 💛

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Know Your Skin: Monthly Checks Matter

One of the most powerful things you can do is simply get familiar with your skin. Take a few minutes each month to look over your body, yes, even the spots you don’t normally see. You’re looking for anything new, changing, or unusual.

A helpful guide is the ABCDEs of Skin Cancer:

• A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
• B – Border: Irregular, scalloped, or notched edges
• C – Color: Multiple colors or uneven tone
• D – Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser
• E – Evolving: Changing in size, shape, color, or symptoms (itching, bleeding)

In addition to your at-home checks, I strongly encourage an annual skin check with a dermatologist. It typically takes about 5 minutes and it can truly save your life.

During your appointments with me, I’m also keeping an eye out. If I notice anything that looks concerning, we’ll document it so we can monitor changes over time. While I cannot diagnose, I will always guide you if I think something should be looked at more closely by a medical professional.

SPF Myths vs. Facts (Let’s Clear It Up)

SPF is hands-down the best way to protect your skin and it doesn’t have to be complicated. SPF 30 is sufficient for daily use, and reapplication every 2 hours is key. The rule of thumb is that 2 fingers worth of sunscreen is the amount you should apply to your face, neck, ears, eyelids, and scalp.

Let’s bust some common myths:

1. MYTH
The “chemicals” in SPF are more likely to cause cancer than the sun.

FACT

SPF is a heavily regulated product in the U.S. and is very safe for use. All ingredients are chemicals whether mineral, synthetic, or naturally derived. Sunscreens are regulated by the FDA as over-the-counter drugs, meaning they are rigorously tested and verified for safety and effectiveness

2. MYTH
SPF can be labeled as sunblock, sweat proof, or waterproof.

FACT

These terms are not allowed because they are misleading. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays, and all formulas wear off, especially with water or sweat.

3.MYTH
You only need SPF on sunny days or when you’re outside.

FACT

Up to 90% of UV rays can penetrate clouds. UV rays also reflect off water, sand, and snow and can reach you through windows or even while flying above the clouds. If there’s daylight, your skin is exposed.

4.MYTH

I have darker skin, so I’m safe from skin cancer.

FACT

While melanin offers some natural protection, all skin tones are vulnerable to sun damage, skin cancer, and premature aging.

5.MYTH

Wearing SPF every day is annoying.

FACT

The easiest solution is using a moisturizer that includes SPF. It blends seamlessly into your routine. No extra step, no heavy feel.

6. MYTH

Makeup with SPF is enough protection.

FACT

It’s not adequate coverage. Makeup is rarely applied in a thick enough layer and isn’t reapplied consistently, which creates a false sense of protection.

Oncology-Safe Skincare & Support

Whether it’s helping soothe sensitivity, calm inflammation, or simply providing a peaceful moment of normalcy, my goal is to support both the skin and the spirit.

I also carry oncology-mindful, gentle products designed to nourish compromised skin.

You can:

• Book a consultation or facial tailored to your needs
• Reach out with questions
• Or send a gift card to someone who could use a little extra care right now

Follow along on social media for updates from my studio!