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Total Health

Four Questions to Save Your Skin


Everyone should see a dermatologist at least once a year. Spring is a great time to go for advice on sun protection and have your skin examined before beach weather begins. When you see your dermatologist, here are four topics that you two should discuss:

What is my skin type?
Your skin type determines the amount of natural protection your skin provides you, which is a key factor when determining your risk of developing skin cancer.

What is my risk for skin cancer?
Skin type isn't the only thing to consider when thinking about skin cancer risk. Family history, childhood sun exposure, personal skin cancer history and other factors all play a part in determining your overall risk. If you aren't familiar with your family's medical history, consider contacting some relatives to find out if there is a history of melanoma in your family tree.

Do I need to examine my own skin?
A monthly skin check is a crucial part of skin cancer early detection, although it should not replace a yearly professional skin exam. It's important to be as thorough as possible.

What should I look for?
There are three major types of skin cancer—basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. Each has different symptoms and poses different risks. Learn to recognize the warning signs of BCC, SCC and melanoma.

Remember, the summer brings longer days and more intense sunlight, which adds up to more UV exposure. Follow these tips from the Skin Cancer Foundation to reduce your risk of sunburn, skin damage and skin cancer:

  • Seek the shade, especially between 10 am and 4 pm.

  • Do not burn.

  • Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths.

  • Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day.

  • Apply 1 ounce (2 tbsp) total of sunscreen to all exposed areas, 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every 2 hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.

  • Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

  • Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of 6 months.

  • Examine your skin from head-to-toe every month.

  • See your physician every year for a professional skin exam.

 

 
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