Why sunscreen is your most important skincare product, as Jesse Tyler Ferguson will tell you – Modern Family star just got ‘a bit of skin cancer’ removed
- TV star Ferguson shared a reminder on Instagram about the importance of using high-SPF sunscreen after a visit to the dermatologist
- Experts say 80 to 90 per cent of all skin tumours are on the face and neck, so daily sunscreen is vital, even indoors
Actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson is sharing an important reminder after getting “a bit of skin cancer” removed from his neck.
In a post to Instagram this week, the Modern Family star, 45, urged his followers to make regular visits to see a dermatologist and wear sunscreen.
“Reminder to stay up to date on your dermatology checks … especially if you’re fair like me. I always wind up getting something taken from me, every time I go,” he wrote. “Today, they took a bit of skin cancer that they found. Don’t worry, I got it early and I’m gonna be just fine. (and, wear sunscreen! SPF 1,000 for me!)
In the photo, you can see a bandage covering a section of his neck just below his ear. His husband, Justin Mikita, wrote in the comment section, “Gotta keep you around forever. Derm appointments once a month!”
Others chimed in to thank Ferguson for the sun protection reminder. Zooey Deschanel wrote, “SPF one million!!! And hats – so many hats!” Actor Rory O’Malley wrote, “Glad you are OK. Thanks for the reminder my fellow ginger.”
Experts also stress the importance of adequate SPF usage and proper application.
Stuck indoors because of the virus? Sun can still damage your skin
Dr Barry Goldman, a clinical instructor at Cornell New York-Presbyterian Hospital, said that 80 per cent to 90 per cent of all skin cancers are on the face and neck. “I’ve seen many tumours on the eyelids or around the eyes, the forehead. Basically, the whole face should be covered … We think of the whole face as a high-risk area for skin cancer,” he said.
Dr Samer Jaber, also a dermatologist, tells his patients at Washington Square Dermatology to use sunscreen every day on the entire face.
“We know regular use of sunscreen on the face both prevents against skin cancer and is great for anti-ageing, preventing wrinkles and discolouration on the face,” he said, adding that it’s also important to wear it on non-sunny days since UVA rays can penetrate clouds and windows.
Dr Caroline Robinson, a dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology, added that it should be applied to any other uncovered areas as well, including the neck, ears and hands.
“The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying one shot glass of sunscreen to cover the entire body, approximately 1/2 teaspoon of which will cover the face and neck. Your sunscreen should be at least an SPF 30, broad spectrum protecting against both UVA and UVB rays, and water resistant,” she added. “It should be worn daily regardless of whether you are indoors or outdoors and reapplied during the day especially if outdoors.”
In addition to sunscreen, the American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests seeking shade when appropriate as well as wearing sun-protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves and sunglasses.
The association also encourages patients to see a board-certified dermatologist if they notice new or suspicious spots on the skin, or anything changing, itching or bleeding.
In order to notice any changes, the association says it’s beneficial to get in the habit of checking your skin monthly.
