Skin cancer remains one of the most common types of cancer. But here’s the thing: It’s both highly preventable and treatable.
At McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery, we asked our skin cancer dermatologist near Frisco, Dr. Michael McGuiness, the best ways to prevent skin cancer.
Here’s what he said.
1. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure and Ultraviolet Radiation
The sun gives us a lot of good things: warmth, vitamin D, serotonin (the feel-good brain chemical). Unfortunately, sometimes “too much” isn’t a good thing.
Prolonged or overexposure to sunlight—or any other form of ultraviolet radiation (like from tanning beds)—is the primary cause of skin cancer. UV rays cause cellular and DNA damage, which leads to excessive cell division and possible cancerous tumor development.
We recommend seeking shade whenever you’re outside and wearing sun-protective layers like sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and clothing that covers your arms and legs.
2. Wear Sunscreen
Wearing sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher can reduce your risk of skin cancer. But just simply wearing it isn’t enough, you have to remember to reapply your sunscreen as well. Different formulas have different durations, so it’s important to always read the directions carefully.
We offer a range of sun protection products in our store that can blend seamlessly into your skincare and makeup routine.
3. Schedule Annual Skin Checks
A skin exam is an exam where your skin cancer dermatologist near Frisco assesses your skin from head-to-toe to check for abnormalities like:
- Moles
- New growths
- Slow-healing sores
- Rough patches of skin
These are just a few signs and symptoms of skin cancer. If caught early, we can schedule an appointment for Mohs surgery—a gold standard treatment for high-risk skin cancers.
If you aren’t showing signs of skin cancer, then you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from this 10-minute appointment.
Protect Your Skin
In order to be the best dermatologists for you, we strive to give you the tools to keep your skin safe. The best way to do that is by scheduling a skin check and consultation.
For a more streamlined process, you can also try our treatment planning tool.
