Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but it’s also one of the most preventable. Understanding your risk, protecting your skin from UV damage, and scheduling routine skin checks can help detect skin cancer early, when treatment is often most effective.
Whether you’re spending time outdoors or simply going about your day, your skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays. The good news is that a few simple habits can make a big difference.
Know Your Risk
Anyone can develop skin cancer, but certain factors may increase your risk, including:
• Frequent sun exposure
• A history of blistering sunburns
• Indoor tanning
• Fair skin, light eyes, or light hair
• Having many or atypical moles
• A personal or family history of skin cancer
• A weakened immune system
Even if you don’t consider yourself high risk, routine skin exams are an important part of maintaining your skin health.
Recognize the Warning Signs
Skin cancer can appear in many different ways, which is why it’s important to become familiar with your skin and watch for changes.
Pay attention to:
• A new mole or growth
• A mole that changes in size, shape, or color
• A sore that doesn’t heal
• A spot that bleeds, crusts, or continues to return
When checking your moles, remember the ABCDEs of melanoma:
• A – Asymmetry
• B – Border irregularity
• C – Color variation
• D – Diameter larger than 6 mm
• E – Evolving or changing over time
If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.
Protect Your Skin Every Day
Daily sun protection is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of skin cancer.
Help protect your skin by:
• Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day
• Reapplying sunscreen every two hours when outdoors
• Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
• Seeking shade during peak UV hours
• Avoiding indoor tanning
• Performing monthly skin self-exams
Remember, UV rays can reach your skin even on cloudy days, so sunscreen should be part of your daily routine year-round.
Why Skin Checks Matter
Monthly self-exams are important, but they don’t replace a professional skin exam. During a skin check, your dermatologist evaluates your skin from head to toe, looking for suspicious moles and lesions that may require further evaluation.
Finding skin cancer early often means simpler treatment and better outcomes, making routine skin checks an important part of your overall health.
Schedule Your Skin Exam
Protecting your skin starts with prevention and early detection. Whether you’re due for your annual skin check or you’ve noticed a new or changing spot, our team at Alamo Heights Dermatology is here to help.
Schedule your skin exam today in San Antonio or Bulverde and take a proactive step toward protecting your skin and your health.