A number of patients I see admit to covering up moles on exposed areas with a plaster, or applying a high factor sunscreen specifically on moles that they are worried about.  Which is a better practice?

A research paper published in JAMA Dermatology earlier this year, tried to address that question: Impact of Sunscreens on Preventing UVR-Induced Effects in Nevi. In Vivo Study Comparing Protection Using a Physical Barrier vs Sunscreen.

I was pleased to see that the research paper set out to prove what we as dermatologists already knew about the effects of UVR on the skin. The best way to avoid skin cancer is to avoid sunlight & cover up. Sunscreens do not prevent subclinical damage to the skin, which promotes skin cancer.

I had recently written extensively about sunbathing practices and myths regarding sunscreens. If you haven’t already, I would certainly recommend you read that: Sunscreens-Do they really protect us? #SkinCancer #Myths. What you thought you knew but did not!.

Also read: Melanoma: Early Signs & Symptoms

Be sensible!  Avoid sunbathing!!