May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month!

[Micheal Jorden]

AURADERM Skin Care

Did you know that:

• skin cancer is the most frequent cancer in the United States with over 5 million new cases diagnosed every year.
• majority of skin cancers are associated with ultraviolet radiation (sunlight or tanning bed use)
• it can also be preventable with the daily utilization of sunscreen and other avoidance measures.

The three most common types of skin cancers are:

• Basal cell carcinoma (most common)
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Melanoma (most worrisome).

Protection Tips:

•  Always work with a broad-spectrum sunscreen that covers UVA/UVB having an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply every 1.5-2 hours when outdoors and always after water exposure (even if the sunscreen says “water resistant”). Did you understand that most people don't apply enough sunscreen? Apply at the least 1 ounce of sunscreen per application to attain the SPF listed on the bottle. Mole removal consultation at Aura Derm Avoid sunscreen used in infants younger than 6 months due to increased systemic absorption in this age group. Sun protective clothing/sun avoidance measures are preferred!
• Use sun protective clothing (wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, UV shirts, UV sleeves, etc.), attempt to seek shade when possible, and avoid mid-day exposure between 10am-2pm.
• Avoid getting a tan or even a sunburn (naturally or with tanning beds)! Tanned skin is damaged skin and it increases your danger of skin cancer and wrinkles!
• Perform monthly self-skin exams trying to find any new or changing spots (changing in size, shape, color, elevation, bleeding, non-healing). Any spots/moles/growths which can be changing or concerning to you need to be brought up along with your dermatologist. Remember, skin cancer doesn't have to be symptomatic! If you should be not sure, make an appointment!
• Make an appointment along with your board-certified dermatologist for regular skin screenings and to judge any abnormal lesion.