Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and you are at risk if you spend a lot of time out in the sun. You can do a lot to prevent skin cancer, and one of the most important ways is to have your skin checked regularly by a dermatologist. Dr. Manuel Hernandez, in Port Charlotte, FL, provides a wide range of dermatology services, including skin checks and prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancer. He proudly serves residents of Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and Arcadia, FL.
What You Need To Know About Skin Checks and Skin Cancer Prevention
You should have your skin checked by a dermatologist at least once each year. You should have your skin checked more often if you have any of these higher risk factors for skin cancer:
- Fair skin, light hair, and light eyes
- Freckles, moles, or you sunburn easily
- A family history or previous history of skin cancer
- You spend a lot of time out in the sun for work or leisure activities
You can also do a self-check of your skin regularly. You should look for any moles that are:
- Larger than 6 millimeters in diameter
- Poorly defined, with ragged borders
- Asymmetrical and irregular
- Painful, swollen, red, or itchy
- New, or recurring after previous removal
If you notice any abnormal looking moles or areas of tissue, it’s time to visit your dermatologist for a skin check. Your dermatologist might remove part or all of the mole or tissue area and perform a biopsy. Dr. Hernandez may recommend Mohs micrographic surgery, which uses a special microscope to examine tissue one layer at a time. Mohs micrographic surgery is conservative, because only abnormal tissue is removed, resulting in minimal to no scarring.
In between visits, remember to always wear sunscreen with an SPF factor of at least 30, or 50+ if you are at higher risk of skin cancer.
Want To Know More?
To find out more about the importance of skin checks and other skin cancer prevention tips, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Manuel Hernandez, in Port Charlotte, FL, serving residents of Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and Arcadia, FL, areas. You can reach him in the office by calling (941) 764-7773, so call today.