It has been nearly a year since my last comprehensive update on my personal journey with skin cancer, and there’s a great deal I’m eager to share with you all! While this may seem an unusual topic for a food blog, my experience has profoundly shaped my perspective on health and wellness, extending beyond the kitchen. My motivation to discuss skin cancer publicly stems from a deep conviction that sharing my story can genuinely make a difference in others’ lives.

For those new to my journey and wondering why a food enthusiast is delving into skin health, you can find the foundational posts below. Please be aware that the first link contains graphic images of my facial surgery, so discretion is advised if you are sensitive to such visuals:

What Happened to My Face: Why I Ended Up with 20 Stitches

Skin Cancer Update + Suncare Favorites 2016

It’s truly surreal to reflect that more than two years have passed since December 2015, when I first embarked on this unexpected path of confronting skin cancer. I consider myself incredibly fortunate and profoundly grateful that my diagnoses have, thus far, been limited to pre-melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. Basal cell is a highly curable and non-life-threatening form of skin cancer, a stark contrast to melanoma, which carries far more severe implications and can be fatal if not caught early.

Initially, the idea of discussing my skin cancer challenges on a platform dedicated to recipes felt out of place. Yet, an overwhelming sense of responsibility propelled me forward. I felt a strong imperative to share, believing that my openness could empower others to seek medical advice for any suspicious skin spots or concerns they might have. The response has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Hundreds of you have reached out, compelled to act on my recommendation. Many discovered that those seemingly innocuous spots on your face, arms, legs, or torso were indeed skin cancer, leading to crucial early intervention. Equally, many found peace of mind knowing they were in the clear – a truly wonderful outcome! I’ve been incredibly touched by the emails, comments, and personal stories you’ve shared about your own experiences or those of your loved ones. You’ve sent pictures and narratives that have brought both laughter and tears, reminding me of the profound impact of this shared journey. It reinforces my belief that continuing to share this story is vital, even if it only helps a handful more individuals.

My Ongoing Battle and Healing Progress

As for my personal health, I’m doing quite well. In a newsletter sent out in March, I mentioned a new suspicious spot that appeared on my nose, precisely where my first basal cell carcinoma had been. This news, understandably, caused considerable worry. After multiple visits with my dermatologist, I am relieved to report that the spot has not progressed. While my doctor will continue to monitor the area diligently, I am currently free of new basal cell skin cancer spots.

My routine now includes quarterly dermatologist appointments, with additional visits if I notice anything concerning. My doctor is also closely monitoring certain areas on my scalp. This is particularly important because scalp melanoma is recognized as one of the most aggressive and often overlooked forms of melanoma. His vigilance is something I deeply appreciate. If you, like me, frequently experience sunburns along your hair part, please pay close attention to this area and consider regular checks.

Today, my nose carries the subtle marks of its journey. It’s a little spotty, with lingering redness and blotchiness where the stitches were placed a couple of years ago. The small patch of skin moved from my eye area to camouflage the surgical site doesn’t perfectly match the surrounding skin, but as the saying goes, “you get what you get, and you don’t throw a fit.” Overall, the healing has been remarkable, especially when I compare it to photos from a year ago (like the one below, where, thankfully, the parakeet did not eat me as I feared!). The transformation is even more dramatic when juxtaposed with the original surgery and stitches pictures – truly incredible healing.

When I do apply makeup, usually just a bit of powder in addition to my minimal mascara and eyeshadow, the scar is fairly well concealed. However, I’m generally a low-maintenance makeup wearer. More often than not, I embrace my naturally splotchy nose, simply ensuring it’s well-protected with sunscreen. In family photos, like the one below with my children, the subtle scar is barely noticeable, except for a slight lift and pucker when I smile. While this minor aesthetic detail does bother me sometimes, I quickly remind myself of how much more significant the scarring could have been, and I readily accept this very small, lasting effect. Given that I rarely take close-up selfies, I feel quite positive about my recovery and appearance.

Transforming Our Relationship with the Sun: A New Approach to Suncare

The most significant shift in my life since my basal cell diagnosis has been a complete overhaul of how my family and I engage with and protect ourselves from the sun. I recognize that much of the skin cancer I’ve experienced, and will likely continue to face, stems from sun damage accumulated during my youth. However, advice from my doctor and various studies also suggest that continued sun exposure, even now in my late 30s, can escalate the risk of further skin cancers, and at the very least, lead to accelerated aging, wrinkles, and sun spots.

I am now exceptionally diligent – there’s no better word for it – about sun protection for my entire family. Regrettably, I wasn’t nearly as scrupulous before my own diagnosis. We always applied sunscreen when swimming or at the lake, but everyday outdoor activities like yard work or casual play often went without proper protection. Now, sun protection is a constant thought, at the forefront of my mind every single day. I am actively teaching my children to be equally proactive, encouraging them to apply their own sunscreen and recognize when their skin is getting too hot or starting to burn.

All my kids now wear wide-brimmed cowboy hats, purchased from our local D&B supply store, for outdoor chores. This is a continuous necessity during warmer months as we manage our property and maintain our yard. I continue to cherish and wear my own floppy hat, which I praised last year. It’s my go-to for outdoor work, accompanied me throughout Disneyland last year, and is a constant companion at the pool and lake.

Following my diagnosis, I developed an intense, almost paralyzing fear of being in the sun. It began to impact my mental well-being and my desire to spend time outdoors with my family. Stating it aloud, it sounds a little irrational, but I shed many tears trying to navigate how to function normally in public sunny environments without compromising my health, and crucially, without making everyone around me miserable with my anxiety. It has been a gradual process of acceptance and adaptation. I’ve come to realize that as long as I am equipped with the right tools – quality sunscreen, protective cover-ups, wide-brimmed hats, and UPF swimwear – it grants me an immense sense of peace. This peace of mind allows me to embrace my role as a fun mom and wife once more, especially vital for our family, whose life revolves heavily around outdoor work and play.

My Essential Sun Protection Arsenal: Tried and Tested Favorites

Below, I’m excited to share the specific products that have become indispensable for our family’s sun protection. I’ll also provide an update on my favorite, extremely comfortable, durable, and highly protective UPF swimwear, along with a fantastic new brand discovery.

Please note that this section contains affiliate links to products I’ve personally purchased and use from Amazon. Many of these items are also widely available at local retailers like sporting goods stores, Target, or Walmart. I encourage you to shop around to find the best deals!

Favorite Sunscreens for Comprehensive Protection

It feels like I’ve experimented with nearly every sunscreen formulation on the market. While 100% zinc oxide sunscreens offer excellent mineral protection, they haven’t been practical for my family due to their greasy texture, persistent white residue, and my children’s strong refusal to wear them. Conversely, I’m cautious about relying solely on chemical sunscreens. My goal is to find a balance of effective protection that is also user-friendly for everyone.

Our family’s go-to, all-purpose sunscreen is Blue Lizard. A huge thank you to those who recommended it last year; it has completely replaced all other brands for us! My children consistently use the Blue Lizard SPF 30+ FACE and the Blue Lizard SPF 30+ SPORT (which is waterproof). As with all sunscreens, we adhere strictly to reapplication guidelines, especially when the kids are in water or we’re spending extended periods outdoors. My husband, Brian, also prefers the Blue Lizard brand. Its non-greasy, incredibly lightweight formula makes it our ultimate all-purpose sunscreen for the entire family.

While I will use Blue Lizard if it’s the only option available, I’m particularly discerning about the sunscreen I apply to my face daily. For prolonged outdoor exposure, I have a few specific favorites that deliver superior protection without compromising comfort or makeup application.

My Personal Favorites for Dedicated Outdoor Sun Protection:

• EltaMD SPF50 UV Sport: This is my go-to for my arms, neck, and legs. I absolutely adore this product; it’s certainly pricier than many other sunscreens, but a single bottle lasts an incredibly long time, making it a worthwhile investment.
  {For those seeking a slightly lower SPF, there’s also an EltaMD SPF 30+ option. While I haven’t personally purchased it, it consistently receives excellent reviews, though currently shipping times appear to be delayed.}
• EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40: I apply this to my face whenever I anticipate extended time outdoors, in addition to my daily moisturizer with SPF that’s part of my morning routine. This formulation is exceptionally lightweight and non-greasy, making it, in my opinion, the perfect facial sunscreen. I use the non-tinted version, which blends seamlessly.
• The EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen is another product I love equally. It’s particularly beneficial for those with acne-prone skin, offering robust protection without causing breakouts.
• I’ve also had positive experiences with this mineral redness relief from Paula’s Choice, though I generally gravitate towards the higher SPF offered by the EltaMD range for maximum protection.

Our Most Revolutionary Find: Powdered Sunscreen!

Hands down, our coolest discovery so far has been this incredible powdered sunscreen! It has been an absolute lifesaver, especially for one of my boys who experiences significant sensory issues with liquid sunscreen on his face, leading to complete meltdowns. I’m probably the last person to discover this innovation – seriously, where has powdered sunscreen been all my life?

This is the sunscreen I always keep in my purse for quick, unexpected applications for anyone in the family. The clear powder formulation is also perfect for makeup wearers, removing the dilemma of applying liquid sunscreen over a finished face. It’s spill-proof, doesn’t get greasy or melt in the heat, making it an excellent option to store in the car without worry. A little product goes a long way, and conveniently, it’s refillable, which is a fantastic bonus. Just yesterday, my 13-year-old wore it on his neck, ears, and face for three hours while weed-eating along our electric fence line, and he emerged completely sunburn-free. It’s truly a game-changer for consistent, hassle-free sun protection.

Favorite UPF Swimwear: Comfort Meets Ultimate Protection

I understand that the following swimwear choices may not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic, but they have been an absolute lifesaver for me in terms of sun protection and peace of mind. Last year, I faithfully wore this long-sleeved swim shirt and matching ankle-length leggings every single time I was at the pool or on the boat. The top is particularly versatile and amazing because the crop top insert is removable, allowing you to wear just the tank if preferred.

Yes, I attracted stares. Yes, I overheard people asking my children, “Is something wrong with your mom?” But the undeniable truth is, I was supremely comfortable, and I did not get a single sunburn. Moreover, every now and then, someone would approach me to share their own skin cancer diagnosis, past or present, and inquire where I found my head-to-toe swimsuit. Let’s be serious, with five children and nearing 40, this mom-bod isn’t exactly upset about a little extra coverage and compression! I am a huge advocate for Coolibar products (this is entirely unsponsored). I’ve spoken about them extensively and own several sweaters and non-summer clothing items from their range, which I love equally for their quality and protection.

More recently, I invested in a new swimsuit ensemble from UVSkinz, another excellent UPF sunwear company with a truly remarkable and poignant startup story. I chose this top in Beach Glass Desert Stripe and these swim shorts in teal. I’m planning to wear this to our family reunion at the beach next week. A quick heads-up: the top does require a swim bikini top or bra underneath, though the shorts are fully lined for modesty and comfort.

Essential Hats and Coverups for Everyday Protection

I recently acquired this hooded cover-up in white from UVSkinz, and I am already completely enamored with it. It’s incredibly well-made, yet surprisingly lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for warm weather. I honestly make no guarantees that I won’t end up wearing this on an average Tuesday at home, rather than strictly reserving it for pool or beachwear!

As mentioned earlier, my absolute favorite, go-to floppy hat is from Coolibar. Unfortunately, it appears they no longer carry that exact style, which is a real bummer because I wear it constantly! However, it bears a strong resemblance to this packable wide-brim hat or this floppy beach hat from their current collection. I also own this shapeable travel hat from Coolibar, which is fantastic because it can be rolled and scrunched to fit easily into any bag without losing its shape. (On a side note, I haven’t had good luck with hats from UVSkinz; in my opinion, they tend to be too small and oddly shaped).

A couple of years ago, I also purchased a lightweight athletic jacket from Coolibar. When I say lightweight, I truly mean it – I can comfortably wear it in 100-degree heat without feeling like I’m overheating. I wear it constantly, across all seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. It’s stylish (I have it in a gray/white geometric print, which is no longer available), and it’s an absolute game-changer for quick dashes out to the yard to water the garden, feed the chickens, or do some minor yard work without the added step or worry of applying sunscreen. This jacket alone provides fantastic UPF protection, making these routine tasks much simpler and safer.

Final Thoughts and Your Call to Action

While my suncare product testing hasn’t covered every single item on the market (despite what the extensive list above might suggest!), I have been genuinely delighted with the products I’ve chosen to keep and integrate into our daily lives. Many items have been returned over the years because they simply didn’t meet our standards for comfort, protection, or practicality. I sincerely hope these recommendations prove helpful to anyone else who is navigating the world of UPF clothing and searching for effective, reliable skincare solutions.

Please feel free to share your own favorite sun protection products or valuable tips in the comments section below! Your insights are incredibly valuable to our community. Most importantly, thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your unwavering support over these past couple of years as I’ve navigated this strange, new journey of skin cancer, sun-stress management, and diligent suncare for myself and my beloved family.

My call to action is simple, yet profoundly important:

Please prioritize staying safe in the sun this summer, and indeed, all year long! So many cases of skin cancer are entirely preventable. Let’s collectively strive to prevent as many as we possibly can, okay? It might seem like a minor inconvenience to carry sunscreen with you everywhere, actively seek out shade, or keep a hat readily available in your car’s center console at all times. But remember the age-old wisdom: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Taking these small, consistent steps can make an enormous difference in your long-term health and well-being.

Furthermore, if you’ve been procrastinating on seeing a dermatologist about a skin issue that’s causing you concern, please don’t wait another moment! Make that appointment today. Even if your doctor determines it’s something harmless, like the vascular lesion Brian recently had checked last week, it is always far better to go in, get it evaluated, and know for certain, rather than allowing something potentially harmful to take root and spread undetected.

I’ll be stepping away from this little blog for approximately 10 days as my family and I embark on an epic road trip through Utah, southern California, and up to the majestic Redwood National Forest. Rest assured, my hats and sunscreen are meticulously packed! Please continue to leave your thoughts and comments below, and I promise to respond as soon as I can. Sending all my love and gratitude to each of you.