Squamous cell skin cancer

Over 250,000 new cases of squamous cell carcinoma are diagnosed each year, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. When treated early, squamous cell carcinoma — which is mainly caused by sun exposure — may need minor surgery and has a good prognosis. But, if undiagnosed, it can actually lead to disfigurement or metastasize. Individuals with a suppressed immune system are at higher risk. For organ transplant or HIV patients, this cancer can be fatal.

The study

• Importance of inflammation: Anne VanBuskirk, Ph.D., assistant professor of surgery at Ohio State’s College of Medicine, and other researchers believe that squamous cell carcinoma may partly occur because of an inflammatory response that’s "stuck in overdrive" and black raspberries may reduce this response, according to Science Daily. This is especially important, because studies have shown an association between inflammation and cancer.
• Study specifics: To explore the role of black raspberries in squamous cell skin cancer, senior author VanBuskirk and her team exposed mice to UVB rays (which cause sunburn) three times a week for 25 weeks. Next, the mice received an application of either KY jelly containing a freeze-dried, ground-up compound of black raspberry extract or a gel without the berry powder. A third group served as a control.
• Results: Mice treated with the extract actually showed a 50 percent decrease in their tumors. And these same mice, when compared with the control group, had smaller tumors. Inflammation was also reduced. These beneficial results might stem from anthacyanins — which provide black raspberries with their dark color.
• Future goals: Dr. VanBuskirk hopes that eventually this extract will be provided to consumers, not only to soothe the pain from sunburn but also to reduce sun damage.

Berry beauty

Though more research is needed to confirm black raspberry’s role in skin cancer prevention, you can still enjoy the antioxidant powers of berries in your skincare.

• Try the Ole Henriksen Blue Black Berry Enzyme Mask to repair and soothe.

Sun protection

For daily sun protection, try these effective products.

• Bliss Oil-Free Sunban Lotion for the Face SPF 30 is a lightweight formula that’s great for all skin types.
• Keep your skin protected and hydrated with Cellex-C Sunscreen, SPF 15, which is fragrance-free and noncomedogenic.
• A light and oil-free formula, MD Skincare Powerful Sun Protection SPF 45 Sunscreen Cream provides broad spectrum protection and is packed with antioxidants.

See also:

Antioxidants: The Power Plants of Youthful Skin

Sunscreen and Children: What Every Parent Must Know

SPF: What You Need to Know