Howsden Dermatology: Top-Rated Dermatologists in Garland, TX

Take care of all your medical and cosmetic skin care needs at Howsden Dermatology, the area's leading dermatology clinic.

Traveling? ✈️ Adapt your skincare routine to your destination

Traveling? ✈️ Adapt your skincare routine to your destination

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Traveling? ✈️ Adapt your skincare routine to your destination

June 3, 2022
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Here’s one thing the travel guides won’t tell you: Your skin may feel very different at your destination than it does at home. The products in your regular routine might suddenly leave your complexion feeling oily or dry. Before you board the plane or pile into the car for your next vacation, read up on how your skin might react to a new environment. Then, pick up whatever you may need to acclimate to your temporary home—in FAA-friendly bottles, of course.
We’re here to make the research a little easier for you. Read on for some simple tips on adjusting your skincare routine for common travel destinations.
> In a tropical climate, like Cancún: The high heat and humidity could leave your skin feeling greasy, so pack a clarifying cleanser and lightweight moisturizer to minimize shine and breakouts.
> In a mild humid climate, like the Hamptons: You’re likely to sweat more in a humid environment, even if it’s not super warm, so make sure to pack waterproof sunscreen and makeup, if you wear it.
> In a hot, dry climate, like Palm Springs: When there’s almost no moisture in the air, your skin can dry out, accelerating signs of aging. To counteract the dry environment, use a gentle cleanser and a heavyweight moisturizer, so your skin stays hydrated and fresh.
> In a mountain climate, like Mammoth or Tahoe: A higher elevation means dryness and much more UV exposure, so choose an emollient sunscreen and reapply every two hours. This step is especially important if you have a high risk of skin cancer, so don’t skip it!
> Anywhere: Daily sunscreen use minimizes your skin cancer risk and slows signs of aging, so it’s a must wherever you are. Pick heavier formulas for dry locales and lighter formulas for humid locales.
Pack us in your suitcase and take us with you. For your convenience, we have a variety of skincare products and regimens in our offices and online at shop.westdermatology.com that can be customized to your skin type. Our sunscreens are even 20% OFF this month (June 2022) to help you pack and prepare for your next summer vacation.
If you have any questions about customizing your skincare routine to the climate, just make an appointment before you go, and one of our dermatologists will talk you through it. Bon voyage and safe travels!

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How to Do an At-Home Skin Check

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How to Do an At-Home Skin Check

May 23, 2022
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In between your visits with us, did you know you can keep an eye on your own skin by checking yourself from the comfort of your own home?
 
Here’s how to perform an at-home skin check:
 
Examine your body in a full-length mirror. Check the front and back of your body, and use a handheld mirror to see your blind spots. Don’t forget to stand to the side and raise your arms to get a complete look at your entire body. 
 
Areas to make sure that you check:
·      Bend your elbows and look closely at your underarms, forearms, and palms.
·      Check the backs of your legs, in between your toes, and the soles of your feet.
·      Take a look at your scalp and neck (don’t forget to use your handheld mirror!).
·      Don’t forget to evaluate your back, buttocks, and private areas. 
 
Now that you’ve completed your skin self-check, you’re probably wondering what you should do if you spot a mole. The truth is, not every mole is worrisome. There are some stark differences between regular moles and skin cancer. When in doubt, follow ABCDE guidelines for what could mean that you have a form of skin cancer.
 
Your mole may be cancerous if the following occurs: 
·      A is for Asymmetry: The mole is not the same size on both sides. 
·      B is for Border: The borders are jagged, uneven, and irregular. 
·      C is for Color: Color is inconsistent. 
·      D is for Diameter: The size of the mole is 6mm or more. However, melanoma doesn’t always start out small but may grow over time. 
·      E is for Evolving: Your mole may be cancerous if it changes size, shape, or color over time. 
 
At-home skin checks are a great first step, but it’s always important to follow-up with a board-certified dermatologist to get a thorough second glance. Don’t leave it to guesswork because your health depends on it. 
 
Book your skin check with us to make sure your skin is healthy and cancer-free. You deserve that peace of mind!

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ABCDE’s of Skin Cancer

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ABCDE’s of Skin Cancer

May 23, 2022
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Just as you learned the ABCs in school to help you read and write, the ABCDEs of melanoma can help you identify possible skin cancer. These simple rules are easy to remember and could save your life. A is for Asymmetry. B is for Border. C is for Color. D is for Diameter, and E is for Evolving. Familiarity with this list will go a long way to help you detect cancer early, so let’s look at each of these categories.
A is for Asymmetry 
Our skin is made up of cells (melanocytes) that produce melanin, the pigment that gives our skin its color. Melanin also helps to protect our skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. However, when melanocytes become damaged, they can begin to grow out of control. This can lead to the development of a type of skin cancer called melanoma.
One way to check for signs of melanoma is to look for asymmetry. Normally, a spot on our skin is symmetrical, meaning that if you were to divide it in half, the two halves would look the same. However, with melanoma, one half may look different than the other. This can be a sign that the cancerous cells are growing out of control. While asymmetry is just one sign of melanoma, it’s an important one to be aware of.
B is for Border 
When it comes to melanoma, B is for Border. That’s because changes in the color of a mole or spot can be a sign of melanoma. One important thing you can do to check for skin cancer is to look for changes in the border of a mole or spot. Healthy moles and spots have well-defined borders, while moles with cancerous cells tend to have blurry or jagged edges. 
C is for Color 
Most of us have several moles and spots on our skin. While they’re usually nothing to worry about, it’s essential to keep an eye on them in case they start to change color because this can be an early warning sign of skin cancer. 
If you’re not sure how to check your moles and spots properly, don’t worry – it’s easy if you use a mirror. First, use a full-length mirror to examine your body from head to toe. Next, use a hand mirror to look at any spots you’re concerned about. Check for changes in color – look for anything that is darker or lighter than the surrounding skin. Also, look for spots that contain multiple colors. These can be anything from red, white, and blue to tan, brown or black. 
D is for Diameter 
Melanoma spots are typically large and greater than 6mm in diameter. So, if you see a spot on your skin that is larger than a pencil eraser, it’s worth getting it checked out by a dermatologist. 
E is for Evolving 
When it comes to checking for melanoma, it’s vital to be proactive. Be sure to keep an eye out for spots that are evolving. This means they are growing or changing rapidly or look different from other spots near them. Do you notice any changes in the shape, color, or size of a spot? If so, be sure to have it professionally checked. 
Look for spots everywhere, including between your toes. 
Melanoma can occur anywhere on your body. This includes places that don’t get a lot of sun exposure. So, it’s important to check for spots between your toes and on the soles of your feet.  
What to do if you notice a suspicious spot on your skin 
If you notice a suspicious spot on your skin, it’s important to see a dermatologist as soon as possible. That’s because spotting cancer early makes it easier to treat. Dermatologists are specially trained to diagnose and treat skin conditions, so they are the best medical professionals to consult if you have any concerns about your skin. 

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Accidental Sun Damage: How 5 Minutes of Incidental Sun Exposure Raises Skin Cancer Risk

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Accidental Sun Damage: How 5 Minutes of Incidental Sun Exposure Raises Skin Cancer Risk

May 12, 2022
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Think you don’t need sunblock indoors? Think again! That sly old sun can cause long-term damage even when you don’t realize you’re soaking up rays.  
 
Sure, you slather on the sunscreen before heading out to the beach, the park, the pool, or when you enjoy a lovely meal outdoors. But what about when you have an indoor schedule? If you don’t bother with the SPF, you could still be vulnerable to UVA rays. 
 
How is that possible? Can the sun penetrate walls? 
 
If you’re entombed in a windowless space without a scrap of natural light, then (and only then) you might be okay without sunblock. But unless you’re literally living in an underground lair, you’re probably going to have to face the sun eventually, and even brief unprotected exposure can cause problems down the line. This phenomenon is known as incidental sun exposure. 
 
What is Incidental Sun Exposure? 
Incidental sun exposure is any brief exposure to the sun or sun exposure that seems inconsequential. For example, if you work in an environment with lots of natural light, you’re experiencing incidental sun exposure because the windows don’t block UVA radiation. UVA radiation causes skin damage and premature aging. It can also lead to certain skin cancers, even if it doesn’t cause sunburn. 
  
You can also experience incidental sun exposure in the following ways: 
  
  • Driving 
  • Walking to the corner store and back home 
  • Walking your dog 
  • Sitting in shady spots 
  • Being outside on cloudy days 
  
So, even a brief trip outdoors during daylight hours is incidental sun exposure. 
  
How Does Incidental Sun Exposure Harm You? 
Even if you don’t get sunburn from incidental sun exposure, UVA rays can lead to certain skin cancers over the long term, most notably basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Just five minutes of daily unprotected exposure to UVA and UVB rays can raise your risk. 
  
However, incidental sun exposure can sometimes be severe. It’s not uncommon to be sunburned while staying in the shade, and only five sunburns can double your risk of malignant melanoma. Also, one study found that approximately 74 percent of malignant melanoma appeared on the left side of men, corresponding with sun exposure while driving. 
 
However, with a little vigilance, you can keep your skin healthy!  
 
Tips For Getting Maximum Sun Protection 
Don’t let accumulated incidental sun exposure jeopardize the health of your skin! Here’s what you can do to keep your skin healthy: 
 
  • Make sunscreen application your default setting. There are some great sunscreens on the market – light as a feather and with fantastic moisturizing properties, too. When you go about your morning routine, simply apply sunscreen as you would any moisturizer or skincare product, regardless of whether you plan on spending time outdoors or not. 
  
  • Get UV filters for your car windows. Sun protection in the car is often overlooked. While most windshields have UV filtering properties, the side windows might not. If you spend a lot of time in your car, you’ll want to invest in UV-blocking films. This precaution not only helps to protect your skin; some filters can also help keep your car cooler, too. 
  
  • Have a long-sleeve cover-up handy. It’s not always comfortable wearing long-sleeved clothing in the sweltering heat. Nevertheless, try to have a lightweight long-sleeved shirt designed for UV protection on-hand for times when you have to venture outdoors or spend time in your car.  
  
  • Make wide-brimmed hats your fashion trademark. Everyone wore hats in the olden days – it might be time to bring them back for the sake of our skin! While front-brim hats (like baseball caps or newsie caps) can protect your face from the sun, your neck and ears remain exposed. The best hats are dark and tightly knit – if you can see through the hat, it won’t protect you. 
  
  • Get your skin checked. Regular trips to your dermatologist for skin checks are the best weapon against skin cancer. Early detection can save your skin and your life. 
  
If you’ve experienced years of accumulated incidental sun exposure, your best bet is to have your skin evaluated by a qualified dermatologist. Schedule an appointment with us today. 

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How Skin Cancer Can Affect All Skin Types

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How Skin Cancer Can Affect All Skin Types

May 12, 2022
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Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and it can affect you whether you have light, medium, or the darkest skin tones. 
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. While fair skin tones are most at risk for sunburns and skin cancer, we are all exposed to UV rays which puts us all at risk for developing skin cancer, no matter our skin tone. Yes, even those that tan easily and never burn can develop skin cancer. 
 
What causes skin cancer? 
Too much UV radiation is the leading cause of skin cancer. When your skin gets excess UV from exposure to the sun, the cells in your skin can change. Skin cancer develops when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably. This happens because of damage to DNA that isn’t repaired, which causes the cells to mutate and multiply quickly. 
  
What is your skin type and why is it important to know?  
We use the Fitzpatrick scale which is a tool used to assess your risk of skin cancer based on your skin type. It rates two things: the amount of pigment in your skin and how your skin reacts to the sun. It can also indicate how likely you are to develop skin cancer. What’s your Fitzpatrick skin type? Take the quiz here. 
 
What are the risk factors involved in people with lighter skin developing skin cancer? 
People with light skin are susceptible to skin cancer because they have less melanin in their skin. Melanin is a pigment that helps to protect the skin from UV radiation damage. The less melanin someone has, the more likely they are to develop sun damage and skin cancer. People with red hair, freckles, and/or blue eyes are especially vulnerable to UV radiation. 
  
What are the risk factors involved in people with darker skin developing skin cancer? 
Certain risk factors make people of color vulnerable to skin cancer. There is a common myth out there that those with naturally tan or darker skin tones are not as at risk, leading them to be less likely to wear sunscreen or take other preventative measures to protect themselves. Did you know that Bob Marley died at just 36 years old from skin cancer? According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, he had “acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), a serious, rare disease that is also the most common form of melanoma in people with darker skin tones.” 
  
Tips to prevent skin cancer for people of ALL skin types 
Skin cancer rates are on the rise in the US, and people of all skin colors can develop skin cancer. The good news is that there are steps that everyone can take to help prevent skin cancer.  
  
Shade 
No matter your skin tones, it is important to seek out shade when spending time outdoors, as UV rays can be most damaging during those midday hours. 
  
Clothing 
Wearing protective clothing, like hats and long-sleeved shirts, can also help to shield the skin from harmful rays. 
  
Sunscreen 
Regardless of skin color, everyone should use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it regularly throughout the day. 
  
Treatment options for skin cancer 
The good news is that there are many effective treatments available, and our dermatologists will work with you to create a plan that is tailored to your unique needs. 
 
It’s important to know that everyone is at risk for developing skin cancer, no matter their skin tone or type. If you have any concerns about skin cancer, we are here to help. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so don’t hesitate to get the care you need. With the right treatment plan, you can benefit from many more years of good health and great skin. 

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Ways to Protect Yourself Against Skin Cancer 🚫

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Ways to Protect Yourself Against Skin Cancer 🚫

May 6, 2022
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In our effort to encourage you to Check & Protect Your Skin this month in honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we recommend the healthy habits below to help ward off illness—and potentially prolong your life. Each habit is simple enough to adopt in a day, so you can set yourself up for healthier skin any time. 
 
1. Avoid peak sun hours: Try to stay inside when the sunlight is strongest, which is usually between about 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If you do go outside, seek shade cover.
 
2. Cover your skin with clothing: Keep your arms and legs covered, if you can manage to do that without overheating! For extra protection, choose clothes with ultraviolet protection factor, or UPF (it’s like an SPF for fabric).
 
3. Wear a hat and sunglasses: With these two accessories, you can protect your eyes, head, and neck. Be sure the sunglasses filter out both UVA and UVB rays!
 
4. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30+: If you’ve followed our practice for a while, you’ve come to expect this piece of advice from us! We recommend wearing sunscreen every day, whether the skies are overcast or bright, on any exposed skin to reduce UV damage.
 
5. Keep sunscreen in a cool place: Sunscreen loses some of its effectiveness when it overheats, so try to avoid keeping it in your car. Make sure that you carry it with you in a pocket or in your bag. 
 
6. Apply an SPF lip product: Slathering sunscreen lotion on your lips probably sounds unpleasant, but that’s no reason to skip over your mouth—the skin there is as important as skin anywhere else! Pick a lip balm or lipstick with an SPF of 30+ for optimal protection. Make sure to swipe some on before leaving the house. To make it easier for you, we’re offering SPF lip balm in our offices all month long!
 
7. Avoid tanning beds: These beds measurably raise your risk of skin cancer, even with just one use. The idea that a “base tan” keeps skin safe is a harmful myth! If you’re looking for a safer bronzed glow, opt for a sunless tanner.
 
8. Do not sunbathe: Even after applying sunscreen, it’s not safe to lie around and soak in the sun’s rays. The UV exposure still raises your risk of skin cancer. 
 
9. Do a monthly self-check: Examine yourself, head to toe, for any spots with irregular borders, bleeding spots, or growing spots. If you have questions or concerns about anything you see, make an appointment to see your dermatologist. 
 
10. Don’t rely on sunscreen pills alone: While sunscreen pills can be helpful, they’re best when used alongside SPF creams and lotions.
 
If you have any questions on the tips above, or you want more personalized advice, just make an appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists. We’ll work together to protect your skin and defend your health.

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What to Expect at a Skin Check Screening: Before, During & After

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What to Expect at a Skin Check Screening: Before, During & After

May 6, 2022
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We get it. You have a lot going on, you don’t think you have any skin changes, and you may not be exactly thrilled with having someone else inspect your skin. However, this simple and fast check could be the one thing standing between you and your health. Skin cancer can easily go unnoticed, especially if it’s in a less visible part of your body. Don’t gamble your health–get your skin check on the books!
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about what you should expect during your skin check appointment, we’ve got you covered. As part of our Check + Protect initiative, we want you to be as informed as possible so you can continue making the best decisions for your health! If you’ve never had a skin check before, you may be surprised at just how easy it is.
Before Your Exam
Let’s kick this off by talking about what you should do before your skin check exam. Take a few minutes to give yourself a thorough self-exam so you can let your dermatologist know about any changes that you may have noticed.
Make sure that you check every nook and cranny (and yes, we mean that literally!). Some spots that should be on your radar:
  • Behind your ears
  • Under your arms
  • Throughout your scalp
  • Between your buttocks
It’s a good idea to use a full-length mirror as well as a hand mirror to get a full view of those hard-to-reach places. If you notice any new spots or blemishes, growths, or itching and bleeding, make sure that you let your dermatologist know. Some of these things aren’t anything to worry about long-term, but any changes in your skin should be reported.
During Your Exam
Your dermatologist will start your skin exam by asking some questions about any changes you’ve noticed recently or over a period of time. Next, your dermatologist will start examining your body completely to take a closer look at any changes you’ve noticed, as well as making sure that they don’t identify anything concerning. Remember, dermatologists are medical professionals, and they are skilled in handling this exam with your comfort and care in mind.
The entire process takes about 10 minutes but could take longer if your dermatologist needs to take a closer look at anything worrisome if found. Your dermatologist will take special care to notice any of the following:
  • Irregular borders
  • Changes over time
  • Size of moles
  • Color
After Your Exam
If your dermatologist discovers a mole, the next step may be to have further testing done, including a biopsy. This test will determine if the mole is cancerous. If the mole is cancerous, then you’ll move forward with an appropriate treatment plan. This is why early detection is so important!
If you’ve been putting off your skin check, it’s time to get it scheduled! The entire process is done and over within a matter of minutes, and it could very well make a difference in your overall health. The sooner we can identify any issues, the sooner we can tackle them head-on! If you have any other questions or would like to know more, don’t hesitate to reach out to us and book an appointment!

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Check & Protect During Skin Cancer Awareness Month! ☀️

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Check & Protect During Skin Cancer Awareness Month! ☀️

May 6, 2022
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The weather is warming up and people are ready to get back out into the world! Just remember, you need to be mindful of your skincare needs. The most important part of proper skincare is making sure you Check and Protect Your Skin. Getting your skin checked by your dermatologist every year is very important, along with being proactive in protecting it against diseases and cancers.
 
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a timely reminder of the importance of annual skin checks. It’s the perfect month to focus on your skin because people are finally getting back to their lives and spending more time outdoors. As you slip on your swimsuit, shorts, and short-sleeve tops, remember that your skin still needs proper protection! Read on for our tips on how to sun safely.
 
Check Your Skin
Skin cancer is very common, and there are over 5 million cases diagnosed each year. However, it’s also important to note that skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers by ensuring that you receive proper yearly screenings and get your skin checked by a dermatologist. 
·      Early detection is key for all forms of cancer but can be especially helpful when it comes to skin cancer.
·      The earliest warning signs for skin cancer may not be easily identifiable, but a skilled dermatologist will know what to look for.
·      Plus, there are several parts of the body that you simply can’t see well enough. Taking the extra step to schedule a skin check will ensure that your skin is healthy and that you have no early warning signs of cancer. Be proactive in your health and schedule your appointment today!
Protect Your Skin
As we move into the warmer, sunnier months of the year, it’s a good idea to create some goals for your skin. While you should certainly work to properly cleanse and hydrate your skin, remember to go the extra mile to protect it, too. Here are a few quick tips:
·      Wear sunscreen and remember to reapply as directed
·      Seek shade when possible, but especially during the peak sunlight hours between 10 AM-2 PM
·      Avoid tanning, including indoor tanning beds
·      Wear proper clothing, hats, and sunglasses
·      Do skin self-exams each month, and notify your doctor of any changes
·      Wear sunscreen and remember to reapply as directed. Click below to shop our assortment of sunscreens, all 20% off all month long!
Schedule Your Annual Skin Check 
Need to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist? There’s no better time than now to book your annual skin check right before the busy summer months are here. Contact our office today to celebrate Skin Cancer Awareness Month the right way–with your annual exam. 
***Fast Facts About Skin Cancer***
·      1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they reach 70 years old.
·      Repeated sunburns increase your risk of developing melanoma
·      Melanoma five-year survival rate is 99% if detected early
·      90% of non-melanoma skin cancers and 85% of melanoma cases are linked to exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun

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Managing UV/Sun Damage as You Age

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Managing UV/Sun Damage as You Age

April 29, 2022
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Tanning may have seemed harmless when you were young, but as you got older, you realized it came at an expense, namely wrinkles, sunspots, and possibly skin cancer. If you tanned over your lifetime, there’s no need to feel guilty. Plenty of people did it and it was popular for quite some time. You, or people around you, may have taken all types of steps to achieve bronzed skin. Whether you baked outside with foil reflectors and baby oil or frequently visited the tanning salon (if that’s you, know that you are not alone!)…it’s time for a skin check. 
  
If you took those actions back in the day, fast forward to 2022, and that’s a substantial amount of accumulated sun damage. Many people who started tanning decades ago are now experiencing the negative impact of skin cancer. Although skin cancer sounds scary, it’s also highly treatable when caught early. 
  
What are the Risk Factors for Developing Skin Cancer? 
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and it can occur anywhere on the body. The main risk factors for skin cancer are exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, fair skin that burns quickly, a history of sunburns, and a family history of skin cancer. While anyone can develop skin cancer, it is more common in people over 50. People with lighter skin color are also at greater risk of developing skin cancer. 
  
How Can You Tell if You Have Skin Cancer? 
If you’re concerned about skin cancer, there are a few things you can look for to determine if you might have the condition. The most common sign of skin cancer is a change in the color, size, shape, or feel of a mole or other spot on the skin. You should also watch out for new lesions or growths on the skin and sores that don’t heal. If you notice any of these changes, it’s essential to see a doctor for a diagnosis. 
  
What are the Different Types of Skin Cancer? 
There are several different types of skin cancer, and each one has its own unique set of symptoms. The most common types of skin cancer are melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, and it can be deadly if not treated early. 
 
How Can You Prevent Skin Cancer from Happening? 
You can do many things to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. The most important is to protect yourself from UV radiation by using sunscreen, wearing a hat and sunglasses, and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours. You should also avoid tanning beds and check your skin regularly for any changes that might be signs of cancer. 
Conclusion 
Skin cancer is a serious disease, but it’s also highly treatable when caught early. Sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, so it’s essential to protect yourself from UV radiation. Prevention is key, so avoid tanning beds, use sunscreen, and avoid sun exposure when possible.
If you’re concerned about skin cancer, schedule an appointment with one of our West Dermatology providers today. 

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30 Minutes Could Give You 30 More Years

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30 Minutes Could Give You 30 More Years

April 27, 2022
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Your skin is an amazing organ. In addition to being beautiful, your skin performs a series of vital functions. It regulates your body temperature, protects you from potentially harmful pathogens, detects environmental changes like intense heat or cold, and prevents water loss. It can also grow thick and luxurious hair! 
However, sometimes the first signs of serious illness appear on the skin. 
The most common form of cancer in the United States is skin cancer. While the overwhelming majority of cases are nonmelanoma skin cancers that aren’t typically life-threatening, a significant portion can become very serious. 
Early detection is the best tool for assuring good outcomes. Additionally, if abnormalities are detected quickly, you are less likely to require invasive, lengthy rounds of treatment. 
A routine 30-minute skin check at West Dermatology could alert you to potentially significant skin changes, from easily treatable skin disorders to more serious conditions like cancer. 
If you have been putting off a skin exam, here are a few facts about skin cancer that highlight the importance of routine screenings. 
Skin Cancer Facts 
According to a study published in 2010, approximately one-fifth of all Americans will have some type of skin cancer by the age of 70. 
There are three common forms of skin cancer: 
  • Basal cell carcinoma. This is the slowest-spreading form of skin cancer. It originates in the basal cells in the outer skin layer. If caught early, it can effectively be cured after one round of treatment. Basal cell carcinoma has a very low recurrence rate. 
  • Squamous cell carcinoma. This form of skin cancer originates within the squamous cells located in the outer and middle skin layers. While it can be aggressive and destroy surrounding tissues, it is not typically fatal. 
  • Malignant melanoma. Melanoma is a type of cancer that grows within the melanocyte cells that generate skin pigment. It is an extremely fast-spreading form of cancer that develops largely within existing moles. It is also the deadliest if left unaddressed.
Malignant melanoma at its earliest stage is called melanoma in situ, or stage 0 noninvasive melanoma. This stage means the tumor is localized and exists only at the epidermis (the very top skin layer)
Stage I melanoma is still localized but has become invasive and has spread below the top layer of skin. At stages 0 and I, skin cancer has a survival rate of more than 98 percent. 
Once the cancer cells move beyond the localized stage more than 2 centimeters from the original tumor, it is called in-transit melanoma, or stage II melanoma. In-transit melanoma has a survival rate of approximately 62 percent. 
If the cancer progresses, it can spread to surrounding tissues and possibly the lymphatic system. When it spreads to the lymph nodes, the cancer cells can be carried to the organs and throughout the body. When cancer reaches the lymph nodes, it is considered stage III melanoma. Sadly, the 5-year survival rate drops considerably at stage III, particularly if it has spread to distant organs. 
Approximately 1% of all cases of skin cancer are invasive melanoma. Malignant melanoma can go from noninvasive to invasive in a manner of weeks. 
While a skin cancer diagnosis is scary, discovering an abnormality quickly could add decades to your life and preserve the health and appearance of your skin. In addition to having regular skin checks by a dermatologist, a routine home skin check will alert you to any potential concerns. 
How You Can Protect Yourself 
You’ve probably heard (or used) the expression: “I know that like I know the back of my hand.” But how well do you really know the back of your hand? Or the backs of your knees, for that matter? 
We might think that we are familiar with our own skin, but subtle changes are easy to miss. Also, a change that might seem unimportant – something we misidentify as a bruise or insect bite – could be something more sinister. 
A 30-minute full-body skin check is a crucial early skin cancer detection solution. Here are some tips for performing a basic skin check at home. In addition to doing self-checks, scheduling an examination at West Dermatology will alert you to changes that could save your life. 
West Dermatology offers expertise, experience, and technological innovations that deliver extremely accurate assessments and exceptional outcomes. We are dedicated to providing compassionate care tailored to our patients’ unique needs. 
Love Your Skin! 
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month; isn’t it a good time to take control of the health of your skin? You can keep your skin strong, supple, and healthy with the right care. Schedule an appointment at with us today. 

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