Botswana summers are notorious for their scorching days and equally blistering nights with a splash of mosquitoes and other nocturnal creatures that had been hibernating during the winter come out to play during the hot summer nights.
Despite the various myths that have been making rounds that darker skinned people have less to worry about regarding skin cancer, in fact, they are at just as much of a risk as the fairer skinned people.
There are various skin cancers classified as melanoma and non melanoma cancer; melanoma is the more serious type but rarer, the non melanoma cancer. The name and type of skin cancer is dependent on the type of cells which are affected. The cancer arises from the epidermis (outer layer)) and can be diagnosed by the development of a tumour. The more common non melanoma cancer affects a lot of people residing in areas with extremely high temperatures and is caused by the over exposure to Ultra Violet (UV) rays from the sun.
The growths formed from the cancer are often localised and to not have the tendencies to spread. Other causes of skin cancer are genetic and smoking has also been linked to causing skin cancer
Though modern medicine has made it easier to diagnose and treat skin cancer, it is advisable to take preventive measures and precautions against the cancers. With the advent of global warming, the 21st century has witnessed the worst deterioration of the ozone layers thus rendering the skin vulnerable to the UV rays emitted by the sun.
Dermatologists advise that to prevent skin damage, people should apply sun screen, moisturiser and make up with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) no less than 16.
Following a daily routine of cleansing, moisturising and hydrating not only can it protect from skin cancer it can also prevent premature ageing in both men and women.
The key ingredients to excellent skin care include cleansing and exfoliating to prevent the build up of dead skin cells which ultimately cause breakouts, followed by moisturising, which cannot be used as a substitute for sunscreen with an SPF higher than 15 should be applied approximately 20 minutes prior to exposure to direct sunlight. It should also be re-applied after swimming or excessive sweating since it would have rinsed off.
Other aids in protecting the skin from direct sunlight include the use of light protective clothing, sunglasses, hats and umbrellas.
