As the days get longer and the UV rays get stronger, there’s no better time to schedule your annual skin cancer check at O’Neill Plastic Surgery. In addition to our plastic surgery procedures and MedSpa treatments, we also offer a wide variety of advanced dermatology services. These services include mole removal and skin cancer checks. If you’ve never had your skin checked, or if it’s been a while, we’re sharing the top five reasons to get a skin cancer check.
Anyone Can Get Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, with one out of every five Americans developing skin cancer by the age of 70. Skin cancer does not discriminate and can affect any age, ethnicity, or gender. While some cases are genetically predisposed, the vast majority of cases are caused by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. While deeper skin tones may not burn as easily as pale skin tones, UV rays can still damage the skin cells’ DNA leading to skin cancer.
Skin Cancer Can Appear on Any Part of the Body
Not only can skin cancer show up anywhere on the body, including areas that don’t get much sun, such as the bottom of the feet, in nail beds, and in the palms of the hands. While it is a common assumption that skin cancer develops on moles, that is not always the case. In fact, 70% to 80% of melanomas develop on seemingly normal-looking skin. One of the most important reasons to get a skin cancer check is so a professional has the opportunity to search for possible signs of skin cancer in areas that you may not be able to see, like areas in between the toes or on the top of your head.
Skin Cancer is Treatable and Preventable
If you’ve been holding off on scheduling a skin cancer check, consider this an indication that it is time to schedule. When caught early on, there is a 5-year melanoma survival rate of 99%, but this percentage decreases when melanoma is not detected early. Other forms of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, can also be cured by early detection and treatment. Not only does the skin cancer not have a chance to progress when tested early, but treatment is also far more effective when administered in the early stages of skin cancer.
The Risk of Developing Skin Cancer Increases Each Year
As we previously mentioned, even children are at risk for developing skin cancer, but this risk only increases with age. Sun damage culminates over time, so the more time spent in the sun over the years increases skin cancer risk.
Learn Future Sun Safety Tips
Scheduling an appointment for a skin cancer check is a great way for a professional to examine your individual skin type and make personalized recommendations based on your lifestyle, routines, and preferences. Professional skincare checks are vital in skincare prevention, but in the meantime, you can decrease your risk of skin cancer by:
- Minimizing direct exposure to UV light
- Wearing protective hats and clothing during peak UV hours
- Wearing and reapplying sunscreen
- Avoiding tanning beds
- Monthly self-checks
Schedule a Consultation
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends annual skin checks for those with an average risk of skin cancer, so if you want to ensure your skin is in good shape heading into the summer season, contact O’Neill Plastic Surgery today. Our staff is committed, experienced, and works collaboratively to educate patients on the latest dermatology treatments. Request an appointment or call us at (843) 881-2130 to schedule a skin cancer check.
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