Skin Cancer Prevention: Tips for Protecting Your Skin

Dr. Ryan Rogers at Padre Dermatology serving Corpus Christi, TX, takes skin cancer prevention seriously. Additionally, he is trained in Mohs surgery, a vital skin cancer removal procedure suitable for delicate areas of the body.

What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is the growth of abnormal, mutated cells in the outermost layer of the skin called the epidermis. These mutated skin cells can multiply quickly and form malignant tumors which will need to be removed to prevent it from spreading.

Skin cancer can be caused by harmful exposure to the sun’s UV rays without adequate protection and/or using UV tanning beds.

Types of Skin Cancer

There are 4 main types of skin cancer:

• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Merkle cell carcinoma
• Melanoma

In every case, early detection and treatment are important and significantly improve your chances of recovery.

3 Tips to Protect Your Skin

Dr. Rogers at Padre Dermatology serving Corpus Christi, TX, knows skin cancer is preventable if you incorporate skin safety into daily life.

Practice Sun Safe Habits

Avoid unprotected sun exposure, especially in the middle of the day, by looking for a shady area, applying water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen frequently to all sun-exposed skin, and wearing sun-protective clothing including a hat. Don’t apply oil or tanning oil to your skin.

Parents with children should also take care to protect their young skin by applying sunscreen and giving children protective sunwear daily.

Be Cautious of Reflective, Natural Surfaces

Sand, snow, and water are all reflective surfaces and can cause you to burn. If you are in or near reflective natural surfaces, wear protective eyewear with UVA and UVB protection and apply sunscreen.

Self-Examination

Regularly examine your skin for any changes. The first signs of skin cancer are usually a change in the look and feel of your skin especially changes to your moles in shape, size, and color.

Self-examination is even more important if you have a family member who has previously had skin cancer, as there is thought to be a genetic component. It is also vital for patients who have previously had malignant moles or cancerous skin tumors removed.

Avoid Tanning Beds

No tan is worth skin cancer. Avoid tanning beds and rather use self-tanning lotion.

What to Do if You Think You Have Skin Cancer?

The most important thing to do if you think you have skin cancer is to seek medical attention. A dermatologist can screen you for skin cancer and begin early treatment if needed.

Contact Us!

To find out more about skin cancer prevention tactics in Corpus Christi, TX, contact Dr. Rogers at Padre Dermatology today by calling (361) 867-1032 to schedule an appointment.