Stage Free Melanoma

Thank you to everyone that has supported Stage Free Melanoma. From event volunteers, donors, sponsors and participants. Without your hard work this donation to UCSD Moore’s Cancer Center would not have happened. @uvskins @sunrisestrips @ucsdcancer @UCSDHealth @pacdermatology

Stage Free Melanoma thanking the Menifee Police Department for all that they do. @menifeepd @sunrisestrips @PacificDerm @UVSkinz #stopitbeforeitstarts

Join Stage Free for a 5k Run/Walk! Join us at Kit Carson Park in Escondido, CA on Saturday, August 19 at 9am This walk is in honor of Eric Martin, the founder of Stage Free Melanoma - a true #melanomawarrior who gained his wings on July 30, 2020. Stagefreemelanoma.org

Spray Sunscreen is better than no sunscreen However: It is only effective if used correctly. Spray sunscreen can lead to missed spots - you should rub it in. This is because even fine sprays will coat your body unevenly, and rubbing it in ensures that you get better coverage

Chemical sunscreens contain filters that are FDA-approved ingredients such as Homosalate, Octocrylene, Octisalate, and Avobenzone, that absorb UV rays, convert them into heat, and release them They offer a more transparent finish, lighter feel, and a wider variety of applications

Physical or mineral sunscreen, sits on top of skin and creates a barrier on the skin that reflects the UV rays Most mineral sunscreens leave a residue on skin - it takes a moment to sink in and become invisible Active ingredients are Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide #Melanoma

According to the AAD, the FDA requires all sunscreens to retain their original strength for at least three years. Many sunscreens include an expiration date printed on the label. Visible changes in color or consistency can also indicate that it is time to dispose of the product

A sunscreen’s sun protection factor (SPF) indicates how much protection the product offers against UV radiation. Sunscreens with an SPF of at least 30 block 97 percent of the sun’s rays. #melanoma #melanomaawarenessmonth #melanomawarrior

Radiation from the sun includes two types of harmful rays: UVA: cause premature aging of the skin UVB: Most dangerous - causes sunburns Overexposure to both can cause skin cancer. Broad spectrum helps protect against the effects of both UVA and UVB rays. #melanomaawarenessmonth

Although lighter skin has a higher risk of developing melanoma, overall - darker skin has a higher mortality rate This may be for several reasons, including: Later diagnosis because symptoms aren’t as easy to spot Less access to specialized healthcare Less sunscreen #melanoma

And don’t forget where the Sun doesn’t shine either! #melanoma

Years of cumulative sun damage is thought to be a cause #Melanoma

In 2023, approx 7,990 people are expected to die of melanoma (about 5,420 men and 2,570 women) #Melanoma

In fact, it’s #3 #melanoma

Ragnar’s biggest running party of the year, Ragnar Road So Cal! This past weekend Stage Free participated in this 200-ish mile journey through San Diego to Huntington Beach! Our volunteers were there to help, educate and teach the runners about sun protection! #Melanoma