Sun damage. Is it too late?

Question

I AM 14 YEARS OLD AND I AM WORRIED ABOUT RUINING MY SKIN FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE. I CAN'T REMEMBER MORE THAN 3 BAD SUNBURNS. IS IT TOO LATE? IF I WEAR SUNBLOCK EVERYDAY NO, IS MY SKIN GOING TO BE RUINED? wHAT ABOUT SKIN CANCER?

Answer 1

use it everyday u can also get makeup that has it in it to. look for it at walmart or the pharmacy

Answer 2

Always, always, look after your skin. I am 32, and have spent about 10 years with significant life changing problems associated with sun over exposure. If youve noticed at quite a young age that your skin is particularly sensitive to the sun, take this as a warning and do all the sensible things-sunscreen, hat etc. At 14 I wouldnt consider that there is much likelihood that youve caused any serious problems(skin is pretty hardy), use it as a lesson though. Keep in mind also that dermatologists are practically friggin useless re most skin problems, hence if your worried about something be prepared to shop around to find the right derm.

Answer 3

It's good that you are aware of this early. Just be good with the sunscreen and watch your sun exposure. I didn't...I worshipped the sun (and tanning beds) for years, and had my first bout with melanoma last year.

By the way, I am 33. Diagnosed with melanoma (aka skin cancer, the worst kind) shortly after turning 32. It's being diagnosed at younger ages these days...alarmingly so and much of this could probably be attributed to the increase in tanning bed use (no matter how much the industry tries to state otherwise, it is NOT good for you). Just keep an eye out for any suspicious spots, never be lax about it. People are being diagnosed as early as late teens. To say not to worry about it until 50s is absolutely ridiculous and could cost lives.

Answer 4

You need to put a sun block on yourself everytime you are exposed to the sun. You are to young to get sun cancer. If its going to show up, it won't be until you are about 50. So take care of your skin and protect it. Its the only skin you GOT.