How Can I Prevent Skin Cancer? (Alpharetta , Roswell, Marietta GA) Dermatologist

How Can I Prevent Skin Cancer?

The best protection against skin cancer is to minimize sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you do go out in the sun, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher that protects against UVA and UVB), making sure to cover the head, lips, hands, neck, and ears. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing. Not only will this dramatically decrease your risk of skin cancer, but it will prevent other sun-damaging conditions, like wrinkles and actinic keratoses.

While everyone should minimize their exposure to the sun, fair-skinned people, outdoor workers, and residents of sunny climates should use particular caution.

Another effective weapon against skin cancer is regular self-exams of your skin. Get to know the landscape of your skin, and take an inventory of all moles.

Because skin cancer can resemble other skin conditions, be sure to tell your doctor about unusual skin changes or lesions, especially these:

■A sore that comes and goes but never completely heals
■A shiny bump or nodule, especially if it appears pearly or translucent (these can look brown or reddish and resemble a mole)
■A slightly raised pink growth with a crusted depression in the center, possibly with tiny blood vessels (capillaries) visible on the surface
■A patch of skin that is red or irritated, especially on the chest, shoulders, or limbs
■A white or yellow-ish waxy scar with poorly defined borders

If you have any risk factors, such as prolonged sun exposure, family history, or a past cancerous lesion, you may benefit from having your skin checked regularly by your doctor.

Tanning booths increase the risk of developing skin cancer, despite any claims of their being a safe alternative to natural sunlight. The skin doesn’t tan unless it is first damaged by UV radiation. Intentional tanning should be avoided like any health hazard, such as smoking.

To learn more visit: http://www.goodmandermatology.com/skin-cancer.html

WE OFFER "Same day appointments with the dermatologist"

psoriasis, rashes, hives, acne, eczema, rosacea, warts, mole removal, skin tag removal, botox, juvederm, latisse, and more!

Marcus B. Goodman, DO, FAOCD
Board Certified Dermatologist
Fellow of the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology
Diplomate of the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology
Clinical Associate Professor at PCOM - Georgia Campus, Suwanee, GA

Goodman Dermatology, P.C.
2500 Hospital Blvd, Suite #150
Alpharetta and Roswell, GA 30076
770-754-0787
http://www.goodmandermatology.com/