The Importance Of Getting Your Skin Checked

Jun 10

Skin cancer is the most widespread type of cancer, and it's crucial to stress the significance of having your skin checked regularly. In the United States, one in every five individuals will develop skin cancer, yet many disregard it. Some people don't perceive it as a severe threat that could happen to them, but this is not true. This article will go over why it's important to get your skin checked, who should get it checked, and how you can check your own skin.

The Role of Skin Checks

Dermatologists perform skin checks to look for signs of skin cancer or diseases. It's crucial to have these checks annually to detect any new spots before they develop into cancer. Early detection makes it easier to remove or treat the cancer.

Who Gets Skin Cancer

Skin cancer can affect anyone, but certain individuals are more vulnerable than others. Those with fair skin and are prone to sunburn have the highest risk of developing skin cancer. However, even people with darker skin can still develop this type of cancer. Therefore, everyone needs to apply sunscreen before going outdoors, regardless of whether or not they burn.

Skin Cancer Warnings

It's important to watch for new moles or spots on your skin, as they could be potential signs of skin cancer. Fortunately, many resources available online can teach you about the different types of skin cancer. You can find photos and explanations of where they commonly occur and how they grow (https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/types/common). However, it's not enough to rely solely on your doctor for skin checks; you should also perform self-checks. One helpful tool is the ABCDEs of Melanoma, an easy checklist to follow. A stands for Asymmetry, meaning you should check for uneven spots. B stands for Border; check for shapeless spots. C stands for Color; different colors on the spot can be concerning. D stands for Diameter, as melanomas can be bigger than 6mm. And E stands for Evolving, checking whether a spot has changed. If you notice anything unusual, scheduling an appointment with your dermatologist and discussing your concerns is important.

Skin Care Risks

If you spend time in the sun, use tanning beds, or get your nails done with UV lamps, you could be at risk of developing skin cancer. To learn more about how UV rays affect your skin, check out this informative blog.

Understanding UV Radiation and Its Impact on Skin Health