May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month!

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AURADERM Skin Care

Did you know that:

• skin cancer is the most typical cancer in the United States with over 5 million new cases diagnosed every year.
• most skin cancers are associated with ultraviolet radiation (sunlight or tanning bed use)
• it can also be preventable with the daily usage 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 use 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 least 1 ounce of sunscreen per application to attain the SPF listed on the bottle. Avoid sunscreen used in infants younger than 6 months as a result of increased systemic absorption in this age group Mole removal consultation at Aura Derm. 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 perhaps 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 that are changing or concerning to you need to be raised together with your dermatologist. Remember, skin cancer does not need to be symptomatic! If you're uncertain, make an appointment!
• Make an appointment together with your board-certified dermatologist for regular skin screenings and to gauge any abnormal lesion.