WHAT IS THE LANGERHANS CELL?
This cell is in the epidermis (top layer of skin) which plays an important role in our immune system. In the book, "The Skin Cancer Answer," the writer suggests that scientists indicate that UV radiation damages this cell and therefore causes a breakdown in the immune system that contributes to the development of skin cancers. A few minutes of unprotected sun exposure can damage the Langerhans cells in ways that can last for weeks. In addition to damaging the immune system, a tan also directly attacks the collagen structure of the skin, weaking it, at the same time thickening the exterior of the skin, reducing the skin's elasticity (Source: clinical experimental dermatology and Journal of American Academy of Dermatology)

SKIN CANCER: Spot It and Stop It!
In addition to a yearly skin exam by a doctor, self-examination of your skin every three months is the best way to detect the early warning signs of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma, the three main types of skin cancer. Here are some things to look for:

WHAT TO LOOK FOR
When melanoma is detected at an early stage and treated, it is usually curable. Some melanomas are hidden - inconspicuously located on the body, covered by clothing or even hair. Be alert to irregularities in shape, edges, color and size. Those with fair skin, light hair and eyes, moles and freckles, and a family history of the disease are especially at risk. Those who vacation burn or get intense sun exposure in spurts are also at risk. The American Academy of Dermatologists suggest examining the ABCDs of skin changes:

Asymmetry: Most early melanomas are asymmetrical: a line through the middle would not create matching halves. Common moles are round and symmetrical.

Border: The borders of early melanomas are often uneven and may have scalloped or notched edges. Common moles have smoother, more even borders.

Color: Common moles usually are a single shade of brown. Varied shades of brown, tan or black are often the first sign of melanoma. As melanomas progress, the colors red, white and blue may appear.

Diameter: Early melanomas tend to grow larger than common moles - generally to at least the size of a pencil eraser.

To look for skin changes, first examine your head and face by looking into a full length mirror and a hand mirror, both reflecting a right light. Check hands, including fingernails. In full-length mirror, examine elbows, arms and underarms. Focus on your neck, chest, torso and check under breasts. With back to the mirror, use a hand mirror to inspect the back of your neck, shoulders, upper arms, back, buttocks and legs. Sitting down, check legs and feet. Use a hand mirror to examine genitals.

75 percent of skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas. Basel and squamous cell carcinoma appear to result from chronic sun exposure, such as that of outdoor workers, and appear more in areas of the face and hands. Squamous cell carcinomas are more likely to metastasize or spread from the primary site to other parts of the body. These again, are the most curable. By following the suggestions above, you are more often going to find it early. Allowing to go untreated, they can lead to death.

Malignant melanoma accounts to 5 percent of all skin cancers. A main factor is intense, intermittent exposure to the sun such as that received by indoor workers who vacation in the sun. 50 percent of these melanomas develop from pigmented moles, particularly on the upper back and lower legs. It is very curable when detected early, but later there doesn't seem to be much hope for recover. It is relatively resistant to treatments by drugs or radiation. In fact, 2 to 3 percent of patients with metastasized melanoma survive for five years.

Article on Skin Cancer came from Women's Health & Fitness by arthor Laurie L. Dove; other materials came from various publications and resources.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU GET A BURN?
When applying oils to burns, wait until the "heat" has gone from the burn; vegetable oils applied to fresh burns can make them feel hotter. Use our Tea Tree Ultra Relief first, and then apply oils later in the week. Later, to prevent scarring, use a lavender oil and vitamin E mix to the area daily. You can also add Neroli and aloe vera gel.

SUN DAMAGED SKIN
Sun damage can occur at any age, but the effects on the skin, especially premature wrinkling and pigmentation problems, become most apparent as we grow older. Prevention is the key. The most important measure to take is to limit your exposure to the sun, which is thought to be accountable for as much as 90 percent of skin aging. In fact, 70 percent of sun damage occurs without our even trying - while we ride our bike, walk our dogs, even drive our cars. These aging rays are present during all day light hours and tend to make us more susceptible to the shorter UVB rays that tan surface skin. Research shows that sesame oil decreases the impact of the sun's burning rays by about 30 percent. Olive, coconut and peanut oils, along with aloe vera, block out a good 20 percent. Helichrysum essential oil also screens ultraviolet rays (use a 2 percent dilution). The Xienta Institute for Skin Research in Pennsylvania reports that vitamin E in a 5 percent dilution not only reduces burning, but retards cell damage to underlying skin by decreasing oxidation. Phytotherapist Paul Duraffourd points out the cleansing virtues of carrot seed oil, as well as its positive effect on abscesses, ulcers, and even on epithelial cancers. Carrot seed oil can be used to treat cellular irregularities such as moles. A study done in 1990 shows that caraway is anti-carcinogenic when used topically. There is evidence that the same is true for citrus oils (which also have photosensitizing effects, so we are not recommending these oils for this purpose until more is learned about them). For a facial routine, follow the directions for dry skin. Sun-damaged skin also benefits from many of the suggestions for mature skin. - information came from the book, "The complete guide to aromatherapy." We have the items that are suggested for use.