Tips To Prevent Skin Cancer And What To Look For

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Although it affects more than 3 million American adults each year, there are, fortunately, a number of steps that you can take to avoid developing this condition.

Read on to learn more, and call dermatologist, Dr. Daniel W. Sherer, if you have any concerns. He is proud to serve those around Huntington, Hicksville, Syosset, and Plainview, NY.

Protecting Your Skin from Cancer

The three main types of skin cancer are melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. You should protect yourself against skin cancer every day by implementing the following steps:

  • Sunblock: Use a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of at least 30, daily. Many moisturizing lotions contain sunblock, so you only need to apply one cream in some cases.
  • Nicotinamide: Nicotinamide is a form of vitamin B3, and it is particularly good at preventing skin cancer even in people who are at high risk. It can be purchased over-the-counter and the recommended daily amount is 500mg twice daily.
  • Avoid tanning: If you’re outdoors between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, avoid the sun and stick to the shade. Cover up with long pants and long sleeves if you must be outside, and always avoid using tanning beds.

Possible Signs of Skin Cancer

Melanoma

This type of cancer can develop anywhere on your body on normal skin or an existing mole. Melanoma may also occur on skin that does not receive sun exposure.

  • A brown patch of skin with darker brown spots
  • A mole gets bigger, changes color/texture, or bleeds
  • An irregular-shaped patch of skin that is red, blue, or black
  • Dark patches of skin in the mouth or nose or on your hands or feet

Basal Cell Carcinoma

This type of cancer usually occurs on areas of skin that get sun exposure, such as your face or neck.

  • A bump on the skin that feels waxy
  • A patch of brown skin that resembles a scar
  • A bleeding lesion that heals and then comes back

Squamous Cell carcinoma

This type of cancer typically occurs in areas of skin that get a lot of sun exposure, such as your hands, ears, and face.

  • A firm, red bump
  • A flat patch of discolored skin that feels crusted

If you are concerned about changes in your skin you should talk to a dermatologist as soon as possible.

If you live in or around Huntington, Hicksville, Syosset, or Plainview, NY, contact Dr. Sherer to make an appointment for all your dermatology needs:

  • Huntington office - (631) 271-2769
  • Hicksville office -(516) 433-3200

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