The Importance of a Yearly Visit to the Dermatologist
Skin care is on everyone's mind these days and for good reason, we are recognizing the damaging effects of the sun on our skin and concerned about its effects and how to treat them. Melanoma is the most common type of skin cancer, but if caught early enough it is nearly always curable. This is why it is important to schedule a yearly visit to the dermatologist.
Often people neglect to use sun screen and as a result are more prone to sun damage. Our diets rarely promote health skin, and there are many things we can do about it. People who spend prolonged time in the sun are at risk of developing some type of skin cancer if they are not taking the proper precautions. If skin cancer runs in your family or your skin is especially fair.
You must do everything that you can to protect your skin, including having a regular trip to the dermatologist. Nearly all of us experience a new mole or spot and we either ignore them or question if it is cancerous. The reality is that without the inspection of a doctor we can never be too sure.
Changes in the skins pigmentation are fairly normal and to be expected, but it is always a good idea not to assume or panic. Every time you have sunburn you are increasing your risk of skin cancer, so it is a good idea to take precautions and use sunscreen, protective clothing, and a hat if you will be in the sun for a prolonged time. Some skin types are more prone to burns than others so prepare yourself according to your history.
A dermatologist will investigate your family history, and based on your history recommend a schedule of visits. If you have had skin cancer before you may need to have more frequent visits. You can do some preliminary work yourself. Check for suspicious looking moles and splotches on your skin, especially if they are changing monthly, but not clearing up. The key to fighting skin cancer is early diagnosis.
If you tan, stop, you are putting yourself at serious risk for cancer. Instead, use a self tanning lotion everyday to get the same tan look you desire, even the tanning beds are dangerous, the only safe tan is out of a bottle. They have improved greatly in the past decade, with natural looking and degrees of intensity. Femag.com has several self tanning product reviews that can help you to choose the right one. And if you used to tan the regular way you may want to visit yearly just to be on the safe side, cancer can develop even if it is an old habit.
Many people with darker skin believe that it is not possible for their skin to burn. This is not true, while it does take longer because of the melanin in dark skin, dark skin can be damaged just as easily as light skin. The trouble is it is often difficult to see the signs. So even if you think that you cannot be at risk, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Skin Care
- The Importance of Moisturizing
- The Importance of Exfoliating
- The Importance of Cleansing
- Yearly Visit to the Dermatologist