Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Skin Cancer

Many people find themselves spending more time outside as the weather warms up in the Greater Clear Lake areas. Even though sunshine has a positive effect on our health, it can also be harmful if you don’t take the right precautions. The specialists at Clear Lake Dermatology believe it is our responsibility to provide comprehensive education about skin cancer and melanoma.

Because skin cancer is a serious issue, our dermatologists recommend self-examinations and regular skin cancer screenings in Webster and League City, TX. You can also prevent skin cancer by learning the following tips. Contact our office to learn more about common skin cancer symptoms or schedule an appointment.

Skin cancer explained

Many people spend time outdoors to enjoy fun activities, like swimming. However, overexposure to the sun is not necessarily healthy. This is because ultraviolet (UV) rays are a major contributing factor to skin cancer and melanoma. UV radiation damages the skin cells, causing them to multiply and mutate rapidly. Risk factors for skin cancer include:

• Exposure to UV rays from sunlight or tanning beds

• Family history of skin cancer

• Pale or easily sunburned skin

• Previous severe sunburns

• Multiple or unusual moles

How to prevent skin cancer

There are ways to minimize your overall risk for skin cancer. For example, don’t forget your sunscreen when spending any amount of time outdoors. Sunscreen can prevent skin cancer and sunburns, but only if used properly. Remember that UV rays are still harmful even on cloudy days, so be diligent in your application. Leading dermatologists recommend the following:

• Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF

• Apply sunscreen to all areas of exposed skin

• Reapply sunscreen every two hours

• Wear a wide-brim hat and sunglasses

• Avoid tanning booths

Check yourself for skin cancer symptoms

Self-examinations are another effective way to prevent skin cancer. Clear Lake Dermatology suggests performing monthly checks to keep an eye on any new or changing areas. Schedule an appointment at our clinic right away if you notice any of the following:

• Changes in the size, shape, or color of a mole

• Texture changes, including scaly or rough skin

• A change in sensation, such as itchiness or tenderness

• Any sores that don’t heal properly

Skin cancer treatment options

Clear Lake Dermatology performs regular skin cancer screenings in Webster and League City, TX. If we find an abnormal mole or similar problem, our staff may perform a biopsy. We begin by numbing the area and carefully shaving off a small skin sample for evaluation. Our team will contact you and schedule a follow-up appointment if we need to move forward with skin cancer treatment. This may include:

• Topical chemotherapy

• Cryosurgery (freezing)

• Mohs surgery

• Electrodesiccation and curettage

Advanced cases of skin cancer may require chemotherapy, radiation, retinoid therapy, or biologic therapy with Interferon. Our experienced dermatologists can explain each option in full at our office.

Reduce your risk of skin cancer

Discovering skin cancer symptoms is unfortunate, but the compassionate staff at Clear Lake Dermatology is here for you every step of the way. If you are concerned about a suspicious-looking mole or want to schedule skin cancer screenings in Webster and League City, TX, call for an appointment with a dermatologist. We can provide resources and comprehensive options for skin cancer treatment.