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The new SPF for skin cancer prevention: Sunscreen, Protective clothing, Fraxel

We all know the term “SPF” as “Sun Protection Factor,” a metric that tells us how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays and prevents us from getting a sunburn. Now Dr. Rajanala, a Fellow at SkinCare Physicians, and Dr. Arndt propose a new meaning for this acronym to help us summarize the top three methods of skin cancer prevention, in conjunction with skin self-exams and regular visits with the dermatologist. Skin cancer is by far the most common cancer in the United States, and with its rising rate, it is important to take a multi-faceted approach to protect skin and prevent new cases.

Sunscreen

The S stands for sunscreen – a mainstay in skin cancer prevention (it also protects against photodamage and promotes healthy aging of the skin). Numerous studies have shown the impact of long-term and consistent sunscreen use in preventing non-melanoma skin cancers (basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas), pre-cancers, and melanomas. We recommend daily use of sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to exposed skin, year-round. A half teaspoon is a good estimate to cover the face and neck. When outdoors or at the beach, it is important to use 2 ounces (or about a shot glass worth) of sunscreen for the entire body and reapply every 2 hours or after water exposure. Find some of our favorite sunscreens here.

Protective clothing

 The P stands for protective clothing – hats, long-sleeved shirts and sunglasses. Despite the efficacy of sunscreen, most of us don’t apply enough (or re-apply often enough) to get its full benefit. Wide-brimmed hats are especially helpful as they cover the ears and back of the neck as well, unlike baseball caps. There are also great UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing including sleeves and rash guards to wear while at the beach. These clothing options are made with a special fabric that’s woven in a way that helps to block UV rays, making them a practical and easy choice for beach days. Finally, don’t forget sunglasses – our eyes need sun protection as well!

Fraxel

The F stands for Fraxel, a resurfacing laser treatment. Fraxel is a fractional laser that uses heat to form microscopic columns within the skin. By creating these controlled micro-injuries, the laser stimulates collagen and triggers the skin’s natural healing process, improving texture, scars, and discoloration depending on the selected settings. Since it’s a fractionated technology, the healing time is faster than traditional resurfacing lasers. Recently, a research study from MGH showed that Fraxel treatments may also reduce the incidence of skin cancers and pre-cancers. In the study, patients who never had a Fraxel treatment were more than twice as likely to develop a non-melanoma skin cancer compared to those who had Fraxel treatments. For high-risk patients or those with a history of multiple skin cancers, a series of Fraxel treatments over several months can help lower their risk of future skin cancers or pre-cancers. That’s why we have added Fraxel to our arsenal to protect against skin cancer.

Overall, prevention is key when it comes to skin cancers! Catching them early with regular visits to the dermatologist (and monitoring any new or changing spots) is also important. The redefined acronym “SPF” (Sunscreen, Protective clothing, Fraxel) can help patients remember our multi-faceted approach to preventing skin cancers and maintaining skin health. All the sun exposure we get in our lifetime can impact the risk of skin cancer – so it’s never too early to start protecting your skin!