Skin Cancer in Tustin, CA
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancers. Nearly one in five Americans will develop it at some point in their lives. Most skin cancers, however, are curable if they are caught early. This makes regular dermatology appointments with a professional from Enhanced Dermatology of Orange County increasingly important. Regular self-examinations also help detect any changes that should be examined by a professional.
Understanding Skin Cancer
Most skin cancer develops where they can be seen, making it easier to catch them early on. Regular skin exams for any changes in existing growths or for any new spots are important. Dermatologists from Enhanced Dermatology of Orange County can detect skin cancer. They are well versed in skin cancer signs and how to diagnose the disease.
If you find anything suspicious, it is advisable that you are checked out by one of our dermatology team specialists. Examine your entire body once a month including between your toe, on the soles of your feet and even underneath your nails.
Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the development of abnormal, mutated skin cells. It can develop in different skin cells, in different layers of your skin. The most common types of skin cancer are:
- Squamous cell carcinoma, affecting squamous cells in the upper layers of the skin
- Basal cell carcinoma, affecting the basal cells in the deeper layers of skin
- Melanoma, which is the most aggressive form of skin cancer
Causes of Skin Cancer
The most common cause of skin cancer is excessive, unprotected exposure to ultraviolet light, usually from the sun. You can also develop skin cancer from skin contact with toxic substances or from having a chronic medical disease like HIV/AIDS.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
Your risk of skin cancer increases if you:
- Have fair skin and freckles
- Have light eyes and hair
- Sunburn easily
- Have excessive sun exposure
Warning Signs of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer signs may be subtle, and it’s helpful to know what to look for. You should look for moles that are:
- Large, with a diameter greater than 6 millimeters
- Irregularly shaped, with uneven borders
- Itching, oozing, or bleeding
- Growing back after previous removal
You should also look for scaly, red patches of skin that don’t resolve, or that are becoming larger, itchy, or painful.
How Skin Cancer Screenings with a Dermatologist Can Help You
Skin cancer screenings are recommended every 6 to 12 months, or monthly if you have a history of skin cancer. Screenings are critical to diagnose skin cancer early, so you can receive early treatment and the best outcome.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Skin Cancer
Diagnosis of skin cancer is typically done with a tissue biopsy. Your dermatologist will remove a small tissue sample and examine it for cancerous cells. Biopsy and treatment can be performed with Mohs surgery, which is a process of removing abnormal tissue layer-by-layer and examining each layer under a microscope until cancer-free layers are found. Other treatment options include cryosurgery, curettage and desiccation, radiation therapy, surgical excision, and chemotherapy.
How You Can Help Prevent Skin Cancer
Prevention is the key, so you need to protect your skin when you go out in the sun. Remember to:
- Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day
- Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 has a high risk of skin cancer
- Try to avoid being out in the sun during the hours of 10 AM to 2 PM, when UV rays are the most harmful
- Do a self-check of your skin regularly, looking for abnormal areas of skin