Latest news with #Coolibar
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
A Miss Universe who thought it was just a mole, a college cheerleader who loved to tan: 4 women on having melanoma
'I could have detected it earlier — I just wasn't paying attention.' Former Miss Universe Dayanara Torres knew she had a mole on the back of her leg for years, but didn't think much about it. 'I remember people talking to me about it,' she says. 'But because it was on the back of my leg, I would forget.' The Married to Me author finally decided to take action in 2019, when she spotted the mole and realized that it was bigger than ever. Although she was traveling at the time, she was concerned enough to make an appointment to see a doctor in Miami before heading back to her home in Los Angeles. Torres says her doctor was pretty sure it was skin cancer, but when the biopsy confirmed that she had stage 3 melanoma, she was shocked. 'I have two kids, and I was a single mom. It was tough,' Torres tells Yahoo. She had surgery on her leg to remove the mole, along with surrounding areas of skin, which left her with 77 stitches. She started radiation treatment and immunotherapy every 21 days for a year after that. Before her skin cancer diagnosis, Torrres says she didn't know anything about melanoma. After her experience, she decided to speak out about it, regularly sharing updates on her journey on social media. 'I wanted people to know and to understand,' she says. 'Each treatment, I would post a video just to keep people aware of what they should be looking for.' Torres participated in the Melanoma Research Foundation's 'Get Naked' campaign to encourage people to get their moles checked too. 'So many Latinos started doing appointments at their dermatologist because of me speaking out about it,' she says. 'It made me feel good.' The 50-year-old is now diligent about putting on sunscreen before leaving the house, especially on her arms and face. She's also partnered with Coolibar, a brand that makes sun-protective shirts. 'Back in 2019, during my treatment, I was always wearing Coolibar,' she says. Torres says she makes a point to wear a hat and sunglasses while outdoors, and makes sure that 'every product I put on my face has SPF too.' Torres urges other people to see a health care provider if they spot a suspicious spot. 'I could have detected it earlier — I just wasn't paying attention,' she says. 'You should pay attention to your skin. The earlier you detect it, the better the results.' Melanoma can be fatal Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancer, but it's highly treatable if it's caught early. According to the Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA), about 90% of melanomas are caused by exposure to UV (ultraviolet light). Getting five or more blistering sunburns between 15-20 years old can also raise your risk of getting melanoma by 80%, according to the MRA. There's also a genetic component. For some people, melanoma runs in their family, or they have certain traits, like fair skin and red hair, that raise the risk of getting this type of cancer. Also worth noting: Melanoma can crop up anywhere on the body, including the eyes, scalp, nails, mouth and feet, according to the Melanoma Research Foundation. If you've had melanoma once, you're also at a higher risk of having it again, with research suggesting an up to 10% chance of a second melanoma, Dr. Hooman Khorasani, a dermatologic and cosmetic surgeon in private practice in New York City, tells Yahoo. 'This risk underscores the importance of regular full-body skin exams and lifelong skin surveillance,' he says. It's also why Dr. Anthony Rossi, a dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, always tells his patients to be 'sun smart' by wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, along with a hat and sunglasses. 'You don't have to be a vampire, but you shouldn't be tanning intentionally,' he tells Yahoo. People who have had melanoma, like Torres, tell Yahoo that they're now conscientious about doing what they can to lower their risk of having cancer again — and they want to help others avoid going through the same thing. 'I had no education or experience with melanoma' As a college cheerleader whose team was sponsored by a tanning salon, Kelly McWhinney tanned regularly in her late teens and early 20s. Like Torres, McWhinney didn't know what melanoma was or that tanning was a risk factor for developing the cancer. She was diagnosed with melanoma for the first time in 2022, followed by a metastatic form of melanoma in 2023. 'The first sign I noticed was a mole on my body that started getting bigger,' she tells Yahoo. 'When I had my recurrence, I noticed a sharp pain in my left breast that was caused by the enlarged lymph node in my armpit.' McWhinney says she was shocked by her original diagnosis. 'I had no education or experience with melanoma and felt like I was left with no knowledge other than what the doctors told me, which at the time was very little,' she says. 'I reacted quickly by finding the best specialist in my area.' She originally had the mole surgically removed, but a year later started having persistent chest pain. The melanoma had spread to her lymph nodes, creating a lymph node 17 times the normal size. McWhinney had it removed and started 26 rounds of immunotherapy treatment, but she had a severe reaction that changed her health. 'The treatment triggered extremely rare autoimmune complications, causing my immune system to attack my organs and resulting in medically induced hypothyroidism and type 1 diabetes,' she says. 'The cascade of treatment-related complications continued even after completing immunotherapy in July 2024, requiring removal of my gallbladder and tonsils, causing heavy menstrual bleeding and ovarian cysts and ultimately forcing me to have tubal ligation, ending my hopes for having more children.' Now she uses sunscreen daily, rotating between Melan, Daily Shade, Sun Bum and Blue Lizard. McWhinney also wears sun-protective clothes by Watskin and Lands' End. 'I always aim for shade when outside,' she says. McWhinney has partnered with the Melanoma Research Alliance to spread awareness of the disease and urges other people to think of getting skin checks as a vital part of their health care. 'It is a necessity. It is equally as important as a Pap or a mammogram,' she says. 'I would also love for others to understand that melanoma will never 'just' be skin cancer. It is a cancer that is quick, sneaky and shows up everywhere, including large organs. Melanoma can change your life in every single way.' 'I started having difficulty breathing' It was Mother's Day when Juanita Taylor felt like something was wrong. 'I was sitting on the sofa and I started having difficulty breathing,' she tells Yahoo. Taylor has a history of heart issues, so she called 911. 'I went to the ER, and they couldn't find anything happening with my heart,' she says. But doctors also did a chest X-ray and discovered that there was a small shadow on the back of her chest. 'Eventually, they saw there was a mass,' she says. A biopsy revealed that she had melanoma. 'I had no outward signs. It's not normal, especially for a person of color,' Taylor says. 'The only thing I'd had previously was a cough.' (While it's not common, melanomas do start in the lungs on rare occasions.) Taylor, who was 61 at the time, had surgery at MD Anderson Cancer Center to remove the mass, along with a portion of her lung. 'That was the only treatment I had,' she says. Even though her melanoma was internal, Taylor says she's had friends who have had melanomas on their skin. She's now diligent about sun protection as a result. 'I try not to go out at midday,' she says. 'I have a big sun hat that I wear, even in the wintertime. It covers the upper part of my body.' Taylor also makes a point to use a body lotion with SPF that's certified by the Skin Cancer Foundation. 'Know your own body,' Taylor says. 'When I had shortness of breath, I knew the body was telling me that something was amiss.' 'I've had melanoma four times' Nancy Stokes was first diagnosed with melanoma in 2008. She's had three more since then. Stokes tells Yahoo that she was warned she might develop melanoma after a dermatologist spotted and removed a precancerous lesion from her chest when she was in her 20s. 'I started having annual skin checks after that,' she says. While Stokes says her dermatologist has caught most of her melanomas, she spotted one on her ankle that her doctor initially cleared. 'I actually caught that one,' she says. Stokes says she's grateful that her regular skin checks have identified these cancers early. 'The worst one I had was very early stage, but on my temple. They were worried it was going to damage my temporal nerve and the whole side of my face,' she says, noting that she went to see specialists at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for surgery. 'Luckily, somehow it didn't,' she added. Stokes says she's now strict about protecting her skin from the sun. 'For my daily routine, I use Elizabeth Arden Prevage face cream — that has sunscreen in it,' she says. Stokes also uses a tinted moisturizer with SPF. 'For my body, I just cover up,' she says. 'If I'm going to be in the sun, I wear a hat with an SPF liner.' Stokes also wears bathing suits with UPF sleeves (brands like Outdoor Research and Coolibar also make UPF sleeves you can wear with any outfit). And when she's at the beach, Stokes says her husband will set up an umbrella before she gets there to make sure she's in the shade as much as possible. Stokes is also diligent about seeing a dermatologist. 'Getting your skin checked is the name of the game,' she says.
Fox News
6 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Fox News
Your ultimate UV shield: Top picks in sun-protective clothing for him and her
Sun protection is crucial 365 days a year, whether you're running outdoors, hiking, gardening or cheering on the sidelines at a sports game. To truly get the best protection from harmful UV rays, wear sunscreen and invest in clothing that is specifically designed to shield your skin. From sun hats to pants, we've got you covered and protected, no matter the activity or the season. The Bubbly Cabana shift dress is designed to be both a stylish cover-up and a dress. It is made with UPF 50+ fabric and features a charming blue floral print with fun accents of champagne and white wine. Original price: $130 The Peter Millar Mélange base layer is a quarter-zip pullover that offers four-way stretch and UPF 50+ sun protection. The fabric also has moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties, making it ideal for active lifestyles on or off the golf course. This maxi dress by UV Skinz is stylish and keeps you sun-safe. It features UPF 50+ protection, three-quarter-length sleeves for elegant coverage and a flattering ruched empire waist. Original price: $95 The Coolibar St. Lucia tunic top is a stylish and versatile long-sleeve tunic made from Coolibar's soft and breathable ZnO fabric, which contains tiny particles of sun-protective zinc oxide that will never wash out. It offers a certified UPF 50+ rating, effectively blocking 98% of harmful UV radiation. Original price: $95 The Coolibar Lynsu wide-leg pants are stylish and incredibly comfortable, perfect for everyday wear or travel. These pants are made from Coolibar's breathable, soft ZnO fabric, which contains tiny particles of sun-protective zinc oxide. The pants feature a UPF 50+ rating, blocking 98% of harmful UVA/UVB rays, as well as a relaxed and wide-legged fit. The Astroman Air hoodie by Outdoor Research is an ultralight and highly breathable long-sleeve top designed for active sun protection in hot, sunny conditions. It is made from air-permeable, stretch-woven fabric that sports a UPF 50+ rating. It also features a full-coverage hood and thumbholes to provide extra protection for the hands. Swap out your baseball cap for this straw bucket hat from Talbots for a chic look by the pool, in the garden or on a city stroll. The hat is made from woven raffia and can be adjusted to fit different head sizes. Original price: $39.99 This Baleaf zip-up hoodie provides UPF 50+ sun protection and is made from a lightweight, quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabric. The jacket is designed with a hood for head and neck coverage, thumbholes to protect the back of your hands and a relaxed fit for ease of movement. The Carhartt Force Sun Defender short is crafted with the brand's Force technology to wick away sweat and combat odors. The fabric also features a UPF 50+ rating, blocking harmful UV rays. These shorts have a relaxed fit to keep you comfortable. Original price: $45 The Under Armour UA Tech half-zip is made from a super-soft and stretchy double-knit spacer fabric that offers excellent warmth and comfort. The fabric offers UPF 50+ sun protection and is designed to wick away sweat and dry quickly. Check out more golf styles you can wear from the office to the course with the help of our guide. Free Fly's Breeze pants offer a featherweight feel and UPF 50+ sun protection. Their quick-dry construction makes them ideal for waterside activities, while the stretch-infused fabric ensures perfect comfort for travel. The 33,000ft long-sleeve fishing shirt offers UPF 50+ protection and is made with a quick-drying, moisture-wicking and cooling fabric, to keep you comfortable in hot weather. The shirt features roll-up sleeves with tab holders, chest utility pockets and a built-in glasses cleaning cloth. Vuori's Strato long-sleeve tech tee is exceptionally soft and designed to wick away moisture. The tee's performance jersey fabric offers UPF 30+ sun protection. For more deals, visit Ciele is a favorite among runners for its stylish designs, excellent breathability and quick-drying properties. This GoCap Solar Elite offers UPF sun protection and includes a removable neck shield for extra coverage.
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Does Sun-Protective Clothing Really Work? A Dermatologist Weighs In
Sun-protective clothing with a UPF of 50+ offers consistent, long-lasting UV protection that doesn't wash off or wear away like sunscreen. Experts recommend checking for the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation and choosing darker, tightly woven fabrics that cover more skin. For best results, combine UPF clothing with sunscreen on exposed areas, and care for garments gently to maintain their protective power over summer heats up, spending more time outdoors means increased exposure to the sun. We all know sunscreen is a go-to, but can sun-protective clothing offer even better coverage? We asked experts to weigh in and provide their tips on how sun-protective clothing works, what to look for when shopping, and how to make sure your gear keeps doing its Emily Wood, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Marble Falls and Austin, clothing refers to garments specially designed with built-in protection to shield the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These pieces are rated with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), which indicates how effectively the fabric blocks UV radiation. The higher the UPF rating, the greater the level of protection it provides. Wearing a shirt with a UPF of 50+ offers a similar level of protection as SPF 50+ sunscreen but with more consistency. Unlike sunscreen, which can wear off, clothing provides steady coverage throughout the day. Many people don't apply enough sunscreen or forget to reapply it every two hours, which reduces its effectiveness and increases the risk of sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer. "Unlike sunscreen, sun-protective clothing doesn't wash off with water or sweat," explains Dr. Emily Wood, a board-certified dermatologist. "It offers superior sun protection, especially when spending extended time outdoors, and it's also a great option for keeping busy kids safe in the sun." Styles have come a long way in recent years, and function does not have to come at the expense of fashion. From wide-brimmed hats and lightweight dresses to swimwear, shirts, and pants, there are many sun-safe choices available. According to experts, clothing with a UPF of 50 or higher offers the best protection from the sun's rays. The Skin Cancer Foundation gives its Seal of Recommendation to fabrics that meet this standard. Shoppers can find this seal on products such as clothing, hats, and accessories made from UV-protective materials. One of the first clothing brands to receive this seal of approval was Coolibar. The company uses specific fabric construction, color, and weight to block UV rays. Sean Kifer of Coolibar emphasizes the importance of investing in garments that can withstand repeated washing as well as exposure to sweat, chlorine, and salt. Kifer also recommends looking for items made with darker or more vivid colors, which absorb more UV rays than light or sheer fabrics. He suggests selecting pieces with tighter weaves and thicker fabrics and opting for styles that offer more coverage, such as those with long sleeves, high necklines, or longer hems. Wood agrees that investing in quality UPF-rated clothing is important: "Most people do not realize a regular t-shirt only offers sun protection of about SPF 5." Experts agree that sun-protective clothing is the first line of defense, but for complete protection, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is still essential. "I like to think of sun protection as a comprehensive routine," says Kifer. "Clothing, sunglasses, and a hat, plus sunscreen for uncovered areas, offer the best protection." "Sunscreen is not needed under areas covered with UPF clothing," says Wood. "I always advise my patients to apply sunscreen before putting on clothing so that they do not miss the shoulders, wrists, waistline, or other areas that may become exposed when clothing shifts or gets wet." She also notes the importance of overlap: "I always apply my sunscreen so that it overlaps with the edges of my sun-protective clothing." Proper care is key to keeping sun-protective clothing performing at its best. Kefir recommends washing garments in cold water with a gentle detergent and avoiding fabric softeners, bleach, or other harsh detergents. Line drying or using a low-heat tumble setting is best. UPF clothing should never be dry cleaned since the chemicals can break down the protective fibers over time. While quality UPF fabrics should last several seasons, there are signs that a garment might need to be replaced. These include thinning fabric, stretching or sagging, holes, flaying, and heavy pilling. "As a rule of thumb, if the fabric looks visibly worn or lets light through, it may no longer provide full UPF 50+ protection," says Kifer. Read the original article on Southern Living
Business Wire
02-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Business Wire
Coolibar Launches the Coolibar Mott50 Edition Capsule Collection
MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Coolibar, the world leader in UPF 50+ sun-protective clothing, is redefining what it means to combine style and sun safety with the launch of its premium line, Coolibar Mott50 Edition. This capsule collection introduces a new era of elevated elegance and cutting-edge UV protection, designed to empower individuals to enjoy the sun without compromising their personal style. 'Sun protection is multifaceted. It's not just about preventing health risks but also about making women feel radiant and confident no matter the setting,' said Dayanara Torres for Coolibar | Mott 50 Edition. Share This exciting debut is marked by an inspiring campaign led by the iconic Niki Taylor and her daughter, Ciel Taylor Lamar, showcasing the generational importance of sun safety. Additionally, actress, TV host, and former Miss Universe Dayanara Torres lends her voice to this campaign, drawing from her own personal battle with melanoma to raise awareness about the critical need for skin cancer prevention. A Marriage of Elevated Style and Sun Protection The Coolibar Mott50 Edition Capsule Collection is curated for the modern, style-conscious individual who wants to feel both protected and sophisticated under the sun. Each piece in the collection blends premium craftsmanship with timeless elegance, creating a versatile wardrobe for every sunlit occasion—from tropical getaways to upscale outdoor gatherings. Backed by advanced UPF 50+ technology, this line serves as a testament to Coolibar's mission to merge functionality with fashion. 'In creating the Coolibar Mott50 Edition, we wanted to combine innovative sun protection with designs that empower confidence,' said Luis Toro Senior Director of Marketing. 'This collection seamlessly blends luxury and technology to redefine what sun-safe fashion can be.' Key Features of the Collection Minimalistic Elegance: Sophisticated pieces refined with simple, timeless designs. Premium Quality: Constructed from luxurious materials with meticulous attention to detail. Seamless Versatility: Perfect for transitioning between everyday outings, vacations, and formal events. Advanced Sun Protection: Every garment is infused with UPF 50+ technology to ensure robust protection against harmful UV rays. Highlighting Iconic Advocacy Through this campaign, the partnership with Niki Taylor and Ciel Taylor Lamar brings to life the importance of cultivating sun-safe habits across generations. Meanwhile, Dayanara Torres contributes her powerful advocacy for skin cancer awareness, reshaping the conversation around beauty, wellness, and self-care. 'Sun protection is multifaceted. It's not just about preventing health risks but also about making women feel radiant and confident no matter the setting,' said Torres. 'This collaboration with Coolibar and Mott50 allows me to champion both beauty and wellness in a way that feels personal.' About Coolibar and Mott50 With a shared passion for protective fashion, Coolibar and Mott50 have joined forces to redefine luxurious sun-safe apparel. For over 20 years, Coolibar has been a trusted leader in the dermatology-approved sun-protective clothing industry. Mott50 complements this legacy with its expertise in creating stunning, resort-ready attire that combines form and function. Together, these brands have created a collection that celebrates both the power of design and the importance of wellness, cementing their position at the forefront of the fashion-meets-wellness niche. Availability The Coolibar Mott50 Edition Capsule Collection is available now to shop and explore at and at select retailers. This line is more than just clothing; it's a commitment to living boldly, safely, and stylishly under the sun.
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Coolibar Launches the Coolibar Mott50 Edition Capsule Collection
MIAMI, June 02, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Coolibar, the world leader in UPF 50+ sun-protective clothing, is redefining what it means to combine style and sun safety with the launch of its premium line, Coolibar Mott50 Edition. This capsule collection introduces a new era of elevated elegance and cutting-edge UV protection, designed to empower individuals to enjoy the sun without compromising their personal style. This exciting debut is marked by an inspiring campaign led by the iconic Niki Taylor and her daughter, Ciel Taylor Lamar, showcasing the generational importance of sun safety. Additionally, actress, TV host, and former Miss Universe Dayanara Torres lends her voice to this campaign, drawing from her own personal battle with melanoma to raise awareness about the critical need for skin cancer prevention. A Marriage of Elevated Style and Sun Protection The Coolibar Mott50 Edition Capsule Collection is curated for the modern, style-conscious individual who wants to feel both protected and sophisticated under the sun. Each piece in the collection blends premium craftsmanship with timeless elegance, creating a versatile wardrobe for every sunlit occasion—from tropical getaways to upscale outdoor gatherings. Backed by advanced UPF 50+ technology, this line serves as a testament to Coolibar's mission to merge functionality with fashion. "In creating the Coolibar Mott50 Edition, we wanted to combine innovative sun protection with designs that empower confidence," said Luis Toro Senior Director of Marketing. "This collection seamlessly blends luxury and technology to redefine what sun-safe fashion can be." Key Features of the Collection Minimalistic Elegance: Sophisticated pieces refined with simple, timeless designs. Premium Quality: Constructed from luxurious materials with meticulous attention to detail. Seamless Versatility: Perfect for transitioning between everyday outings, vacations, and formal events. Advanced Sun Protection: Every garment is infused with UPF 50+ technology to ensure robust protection against harmful UV rays. Highlighting Iconic Advocacy Through this campaign, the partnership with Niki Taylor and Ciel Taylor Lamar brings to life the importance of cultivating sun-safe habits across generations. Meanwhile, Dayanara Torres contributes her powerful advocacy for skin cancer awareness, reshaping the conversation around beauty, wellness, and self-care. "Sun protection is multifaceted. It's not just about preventing health risks but also about making women feel radiant and confident no matter the setting," said Torres. "This collaboration with Coolibar and Mott50 allows me to champion both beauty and wellness in a way that feels personal." About Coolibar and Mott50 With a shared passion for protective fashion, Coolibar and Mott50 have joined forces to redefine luxurious sun-safe apparel. For over 20 years, Coolibar has been a trusted leader in the dermatology-approved sun-protective clothing industry. Mott50 complements this legacy with its expertise in creating stunning, resort-ready attire that combines form and function. Together, these brands have created a collection that celebrates both the power of design and the importance of wellness, cementing their position at the forefront of the fashion-meets-wellness niche. Availability The Coolibar Mott50 Edition Capsule Collection is available now to shop and explore at and at select retailers. This line is more than just clothing; it's a commitment to living boldly, safely, and stylishly under the sun. View source version on Contacts Sean KiferPR & Events ManagerCoolibar, Inc.412-266-8608Skifer@
