Follow these helpful tips on how to prevent and detect skin cancer.

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of skin cancer. The good news is that there are steps you can start taking now, if you aren’t already, to reduce your risk for skin cancer. From our dermatologists Dr. Melanie and David Hecker, here are some tips for how to prevent skin cancer and also how to catch warning signs early on.

How to Prevent Skin Cancer

You don’t have to have pale skin or freckles to be worried about skin cancer. The fact of the matter is that anyone can develop skin cancer, which is why everyone should follow these helpful tips for reducing their risk for both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer:

Wear sunscreen

This is probably the best tip you can follow to protect your skin. If you aren’t applying sunscreen every day then you are exposing your skin to the rays of the sun (it only takes about 10 minutes in the sun to get burned). The sun’s rays are powerful enough to even radiate through car and office windows. A good rule of thumb is about 20-30 minutes before going outside generously apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of 30.

Reapply sunscreen

Sunscreen isn’t a “set it and forget it” kind of habit. If you are spending hours outside, you’ll want to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating (e.g. running outside; playing volleyball on the beach). When applying sunscreen, you should use at least one tablespoon of sunscreen for your body and face.

Seek Out the Shade

If you are planning to go out between 10 am and 4 pm when the UV rays are their strongest, it’s important to seek shade. You can also check the UV index before leaving the house, but it’s highly encouraged to avoid spending extended periods of time in the sun during these hours.

Detecting Skin Cancer Early

It’s important for everyone, no matter their risk level, to visit our dermatologist here in Tamarac, FL, for annual skin cancer screenings. After all, we can spot warning signs that you may miss (especially during those very early stages).

Of course, you should also perform monthly self-exams from head to toe to look for these changes,

• Moles that are asymmetrical or uneven
• Moles with ragged or poorly defined borders
• Moles that are multiple colors or change color
• Growths or moles that are larger than a pencil eraser
• Any moles or growths that change shape, color or size (healthy moles stay relatively the same over time)
• Bleeding, crusting, oozing or painful moles

If you are worried about a troublesome mole or growth, or you are dealing with other symptoms that have you concerned, know that our dermatologists, in Tamarac and Pompano Beach, FL, are still providing care to patients through online telemedicine visits. Book your online visit through Zoc Doc. Of course, if you are dealing with an urgent matter during this time please call Hecker Dermatology Group at (954) 783 2323.