Black Diamonds Can Sparkle Too!

The Winter Holiday Season is often synonymous with family getaways and vacations. While many head down to the the sun and sand, others prefer the the fun and challenge of the ski slopes. Even those who enjoy the snow and powder need to remember to protect their skin against harmful UV rays. In fact, the sun's reflection off snow and ice can cause sunburn and significant damage to your skin. Whether you're headed to the double black diamond or bunny hill, remember to cover up, apply sunscreen, and protect your skin and eyes from dangerous UV rays on the hills!

Cancer Survivors May Be At Increased Risk For Melanoma

A study published in the December issue of the Archives of Dermatology has found that survivors of non-skin cancers also may have an increased risk of melanoma. Investigators found that patients previously diagnosed with melanoma had the highest risk for getting melanoma again. Other cancers that put patients at risk included ocular melanoma, breast cancer, prostate cancer, lymphoma and leukemia. If you have a history of melanoma or other cancer, make sure you get your skin checked regularly by a dermatologist.

Increased Skin Cancer Risk In Women Who Smoke

A new study published online in Cancer Causes Control has found a link between tobacco use and skin cancer. Researchers found that women who had squamous cell skin cancer were more likely to have smoked than those who were free from the disease. Women who smoked at least 20 years were twice as likely to develop squamous cell skin cancer.