Twenty percent of Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they're 70, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Fortunately, using sun protection regularly and visiting your Boynton Beach, FL, dermatologist, Dr. Timothy Nielsen, can help you lower your risk.
I don't spend much time in the sun. Can I still get skin cancer?
You don't have to be a sun worshipper to develop skin cancer. Sun exposure is cumulative, meaning that even though your skin doesn't burn, your skin can still be damaged by years of driving with the windows down or taking walks around your Boynton Beach neighborhood.
Wearing sunscreen every time you go outside is the easiest way to avoid sun damage. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. The sunscreen should offer protection from both UVA and UVB rays and be water-resistant.
Are there other steps that I can take to avoid skin cancer?
Limit the amount of time you spend outdoors between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you must be outside, wear sunscreen and look for shady spots if you'll be spending more than a few minutes in the sun. Wear rash guards or swim shirts at the beach to protect your skin, and re-apply sunscreen every two hours, after a dip in the ocean or pool, or if you've been sweating.
What are the signs of skin cancer?
Most people know that a change in a mole may mean that you have skin cancer, but mole changes aren't the only indications of this condition. In fact, a blemish that doesn't go away after a few weeks could mean you have squamous or basal cell skin cancer. If you have a scaly patch of skin, pearly bump, or bump or sore that bleeds, call your skin doctor.
Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, may cause changes in a mole. Make an appointment with the dermatologist if:
- Your mole changes size or color.
- The borders become irregular or blurred.
- The mole is bigger than a pencil erase.
- Your mole begins to bleed.
- One half of the mole doesn't match the other.
An annual skin cancer screening can help you protect your health. Call your dermatologist in Boynton Beach, FL, Dr. Nielsen, at (561) 737-4888 to schedule your appointment.