Malignant Melanoma

Malignant melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. It is the most aggressive form of skin cancer and has the potential to spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Approximately 30% to 50% of malignant melanomas arise from an existing nevus or mole. The other melanomas arise from normal skin.

If you have noticed a new mole or an existing mole that has changed in size or colour or it starts to itch or bleed it is very important not to delay seeing your doctor. A quick easy guide to help you with regular self-examinations:

A – Asymmetry – check if one half of the mole does not match the other half

B – Border –check if they are irregular, ragged, blurred or notched

C – Colour – check for differing shades of tan, brown, black, red, blue, white

D – Diameter – check the size of the mole & note any changes to the size

E – Evolution – check if the mole has grown or changed

Treatment tips that can help with Malignant Melanoma

• If you fall into a high-risk category i.e. fair freckled skin, a family history of malignant melanoma, and have multiple atypical moles, you should be especially careful about avoiding excessive sun exposure
• When outdoors always wear the appropriate clothing and a broad-brimmed hat
• Use a high-factor, broad-spectrum sunscreen which should be re-applied regularly
• You should schedule regular full-body skin examinations and if indicated by your dermatologist mole mapping
• It is important to regularly check on one’s own moles but also to check the moles on your partner and of your children

Skincare ingredients that can help with Malignant Melanoma

• Iron Oxide
• Zinc Oxide
• Titanium Dioxide
• Antioxidants
• UVA & UVB Filters

Skincare products that can help prevent the development of Malignant Melanoma

SPF helps to block or absorb harmful UV rays, reducing the skin’s exposure to these damaging rays. This helps prevent additional DNA damage to the skin cells, which can contribute to the development of skin cancer. Dr Webster recommends:

Face

• Heliocare 360° Fluid Cream SPF 50+
• SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
• MartiDerm Active [D] Fluid SPF 50+

Body

• Heliocare 360° Invisible Spray SPF 50+
• MartiDerm Active [D] Body Lotion SPF 50+
• ISDIN Transparent Spray Wet Skin SPF 50