Top Tips for Skin Cancer Prevention

Top Tips for Skin Cancer Prevention

It may be the middle of winter but sun protection is important year-round, not just during summer vacations or beach days. Damaging UV rays from the sun can reach you even on cloudy or hazy days, making it important to follow the rules for adequate sun protection to help prevent skin cancer.

At Nashville Skin, we understand that any kind of cancer diagnosis can be frightening, from basal cell carcinoma to melanoma, it is important to remember skin cancers can be successfully treated– especially when diagnosed and treated early. We can provide you with an accurate diagnosis, second opinion, and cutting-edge medical care. Put yourself in the hands of board-certified dermatologists who have extensive experience treating skin cancer and stay up-to-date on the latest, most effective treatments available to give yourself the best chance of a cure.

Skin Cancer Prevention Tips

One of the biggest misconceptions about sun protection is that using sunscreen alone is enough to avoid developing skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma. Unfortunately, sunscreen alone is not enough to fully protect you from the sun’s dangerous UV rays. For full-scale sun protection, it’s important to:

  • Stay out of direct sunlight between 10 AM and 4 PM
  • Avoid burning
  • Avoid tanning and UV tanning beds
  • Wear protective clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses
  • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA/UVB) with an SPF of 30 or higher each day, but for extended outdoor activity use an SPF of 30 or higher
  • Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours
  • Reapply sunscreen immediately after swimming or periods of excessive sweating
  • Perform a personal skin check monthly
  • See your dermatologist yearly for a professional skin exam

Remember Your ABCs

In addition to following these skin protection rules, it’s important to evaluate any skin changes using the

ABCDE’s of Skin Cancer Prevention:

A – Asymmetry – Asymmetrical shape of the spot or growth

B – Borders – Uneven, notched or scalloped edges of the spots or growths

C – Colors – The mark has an unusual color: red, blue, or white

D – Diameter – The mole or spot that has a diameter that is larger than a pencil eraser

E – Evolving – Moles or spots that have changed in size, color, texture, or even itching, crusting, or bleeding

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s vital to receive an evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. If a skin abnormality turns out to be skin cancer, there are several advanced treatments that can provide you with the best long-term outcomes with the lowest risk of recurrence.

Cutting-Edge Dermatologic Treatment

Effective cancer treatments are comprised of non-surgical and surgical techniques which can successfully treat skin cancers, like basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. These treatments include:

  • Liquid Nitrogen
  • Topical Treatment
  • Photodynamic Therapy
  • Electrodesiccation & Curettage
  • Surgical Excision
  • Mohs Surgery

Through a thorough evaluation, the skin cancer experts at Nashville Skin can determine the best course of treatment in the event of a cancer diagnosis. Learn more about prevention at SkinCancer.Org.

Advanced Skin Cancer Treatment in Nashville

If you have a skin abnormality or have been diagnosed with skin cancer and seek a secondary diagnosis, contact us today at one of our three convenient Nashville locations (Green Hills/21st avenue S area, Southern Hills Medical Center, Centennial Medical Center), our Clarksville office or St Thomas- Lenox Village to schedule a formal diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan. Give yourself peace of mind by using a team of experts with access to the most effective cancer treatments available with proven cure rates.