Research Shows Vitamin A May Lower Risk of Melanoma

Melanoma accounts for 75 percent of deaths from skin cancer each year, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, and researchers may have found a way to decrease your risk of developing this life-threatening illness: vitamin A.

In a study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, data from 70,000 vitamin-taking participants was collected and examined after a six year study. The results suggest that ingestion of retinol, a form of vitamin A, decreased the risk of melanoma by up to 40 percent and that further trials need to be held to determine a genuine link between the two.

This year alone, about 76,250 new melanoma cases will be diagnosed, according to the American Cancer Society. While hopeful, researchers, doctors and we here at SpaFinder alike, all believe that the number one way to decrease your risk of skin cancer is to be sun-safe. Always, always, always use sunscreen whether you are going out for a few minutes or an entire day and try to limit exposure to direct sunlight. Wear a hat to protect your head, a commonly overlooked spot and think about using self-tanners as opposed to baking in UV-rays. Check your skin for anything abnormal and consult your doctor if anything looks out of the ordinary.

Keep in mind that you should consult with your physician before starting any increased supplement intake as taking too much of any vitamin is never advised and can have harmful side effects.