The Importance of Skin Cancer Screenings

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and anyone who spends time out in the sun is at risk. Skin cancer screenings from your dermatologist can identify skin cancer early before it can become more serious and spread. Dr. Paul Yamauchi at Dermatology Institute & Skin Care Center in Santa Monica, CA, provides comprehensive cosmetic and medical dermatology services, including skin cancer screenings, to help you enjoy healthy, beautiful skin.

What You Need To Know About Skin Cancer Screenings 

Skin cancer is typically caused by excessive sun exposure. That means you can prevent skin cancer. You need to: 

• Wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30 daily, or at least SPF 50 if you are outside for a long period 
• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and other protective clothing 
• Try to stay out of direct sunlight between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm, when ultraviolet rays are most harmful

One of the best ways to help prevent skin cancer is to visit your dermatologist for regular skin cancer screenings at least once each year. You may need skin cancer screenings more often if you are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer. You are at higher risk if you have: 

• Fair skin and freckles 
• A tendency to sunburn easily and severely 
• A family history of skin cancer 
• A tendency to spend extended periods outside for work or activities 

When you visit your dermatologist for a skin cancer screening, your dermatologist will examine your skin, especially those areas that are exposed to the sun, including the face, arms, shoulders, back, and legs. Your dermatologist will be looking for these early signs of skin cancer: 

• Large moles, with a diameter of 6 millimeters or greater
• Irregular moles with ragged, uneven borders 
• Asymmetrical moles, with one side different from the other 
• Red, itchy, or bleeding moles 
• Recurrent moles, which have grown back after previous removal 

Want To Know More About Skin Cancer Screenings? 

To learn more about the importance of skin cancer screenings and how they can help you enjoy healthy, beautiful skin, call Dr. Paul Yamauchi at Dermatology Institute & Skin Care Center in Santa Monica, CA. You can reach him in the office by calling (310) 829-4104, so call today.