What is the Best Cream for Skin Cancer?
According to the Cancel Council, over 1 million treatments for Non-melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC) are given each year in Australia (1). With the increasing number of skin cancer diagnoses, it becomes essential to learn and understand different types of treatments.
Topical treatments are one of the non-invasive alternatives for superficial Non-melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC). In this blog, we’ll dive into skin cancer cream treatment, the need for prevention, early detection, and more.
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer arises when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably due to DNA damage. It is mainly caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun within skin cells, leading to uncontrolled cell division and cancerous lesions.
There are three main types of skin cancer:
Known as the most dangerous form of skin cancer, it is estimated that in 2023, there will be approximately 18,257 new cases of Melanoma diagnosed (2). Melanoma can appear as a new or changing mole and is more likely to spread rapidly. Early detection and treatment are critical to improving outcomes.
BCC is the most common form of skin cancer. It develops at the bottom of the epidermis and often appears as a pearly bump or scaly patch. Although it rarely spreads, early treatment is crucial to prevent deeper tissue damage.
SCC arises in the squamous cells that make up the skin’s outer layer. It often presents as a red, scaly lesion or sore that doesn’t heal. Squamous Cell Carcinoma can spread to other parts of the body if untreated.
Learn more about Skin Cancer.
Top Creams for Skin Cancer
Topical creams are often used for superficial non-melanoma skin cancers or pre-cancerous conditions like actinic keratosis. Here are some of the most effective skin cancer treatment cream options:
Imiquimod Cream (Aldara)
Imiquimod is a cream designed to enhance the immune system’s ability to target and destroy cancerous and pre-cancerous cells. It is most commonly used to treat superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and actinic keratosis.
What to Expect
- The cream is typically applied at bedtime, five days per week, for six weeks; However, this depends on the medical advice.
- During treatment, you may experience redness, itching, burning, or mild pain at the application site, especially during the first week of use.
- Some individuals may experience generally mild flu-like symptoms that tend to resolve during treatment or shortly after it concludes.
- If you experience severe skin reactions that interfere with daily activities, it is important to discontinue use and consult your doctor for further advice.
Cure Rate
Imiquimod is highly effective for superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), with an 80–90% cure rate. Additionally, clinical studies show an estimated 81% clearance rate after three years of follow-up.
Efudix (5- Fluorouracil):
Efudix is a topical chemotherapy cream designed to target and destroy abnormal skin cells. It is commonly used to treat actinic keratosis and Squamous Cell Carcinoma in situ).
What to expect?
- Efudix is typically applied once or twice daily for several weeks. The exact duration of treatment varies based on your doctor’s specific instructions.
- During treatment, you may notice redness, irritation, skin breakdown and inflammation at the application site. These reactions generally begin 5–7 days after starting treatment and are a normal part of the healing process.
- Temporary hair loss can also occur in treated areas.
- Although less common with topical use, Efudix may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or fatigue.
Cure Rate
For squamous cell carcinoma in situ, it achieves an 80-90% histologic cure rate.
Read more about Topical Skin Cancer Treatment.
Is A Topical Treatment Right For Me?
Deciding if topical treatment is the best option for your skin condition depends on various factors, including the type of lesion, its location, and your health. Topical treatments are often recommended for superficial conditions such as actinic keratosis, superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), or Bowen’s disease.
Skin cancer creams are non-invasive and can be applied at home, making them a convenient option for many patients. If you have a large or deeply rooted lesion, alternative treatments like surgical excision or cryotherapy may be more effective.
It’s essential to consult a qualified skin specialist to assess your condition and determine if a topical approach aligns with your needs and lifestyle.
How to Prevent Skin Cancer?
Preventing skin cancer is easier than treating it. Adopting simple but effective habits can significantly reduce your risk:
Sunscreen
95% of skin cancers are caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun (3); using sunscreen daily is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF30 or higher and approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
Protective Clothing
Cover up with long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to shield your skin from the sun. Look for clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating for added safety.
Seek Shade
Limit your time in direct sunlight, especially during peak UV hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Stay under umbrellas, trees, or other forms of shade when outdoors.
Skin Check
Regularly check your skin for new or changing moles, freckles, or spots. Schedule professional skin checks annually to catch any abnormalities early.
What to Look for in Sunscreen
Here are the key features to look for:
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: Protects against both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
- SPF 30 or Higher: SPF30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, while SPF50 offers slightly better protection at 98%. Either option is suitable for Australian conditions.
- Water Resistance: Ensures the sunscreen stays effective during swimming or sweating.
- TGA Approval: Look for products approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to ensure safety and efficacy.
Read about: What’s the difference between SPF30 and SPF50?
How to Use Sunscreen Effectively
Some tips for applying sunscreen include:
- Use approximately 1 ounce (a shot glass amount) for full-body coverage.
- Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to absorb into the skin.
- Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
- Sunscreen isn’t just for summer. Apply it daily, even on cloudy days, as UV rays can penetrate clouds.
- Expired sunscreen may lose its effectiveness, so always check the date before use.
Conclusion
Skin cancer is a prevalent issue in Australia. Still, preventive measures and early detection can significantly reduce risks and improve outcomes. Above all, consulting a specialist for personalised advice and scheduling regular skin checks is the best way to minimise your risk of skin cancer.
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer–you’re not alone. Manningham Skin Cancer Clinic is ready to assist you in your journey, providing professional and comprehensive care for all of our patients.