Ways to Protect Your Skin from Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer among adults in the U.S. Approximately one out of five adults in this country will develop skin cancer at some point during their lifetime. The good news is that skin cancer can be prevented by taking steps to protect your skin. In Santa Barbara, CA, skin cancer screenings are performed at Kind Dermatology and Medical Spa. The experienced dermatology team can also provide individualized recommendations to help you reduce your risk for skin cancer. 

Skin Cancer Warning Signs

Various symptoms can develop on the skin that are warning signs of potential cancer. Regularly examining your skin for changes is an effective way to spot the early warning signs of skin cancer. See a dermatologist if you observe any of the following signs and symptoms: 

• Moles with a border that is poorly defined or irregular 
• Moles that contain several colors instead of being one solid color
• Asymmetrical moles in which one side of the mole differs in size, shape or color
• Large moles with a diameter greater than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
• Changes in the appearance (size, shape or color) of an existing mole
• A mole that becomes painful or begins bleeding, oozing or crusting 

In addition to checking your skin for signs of skin cancer, it is also important to have your skin screened regularly by a doctor. Scheduling regular screenings for skin cancer at our Santa Barbara, CA, dermatology and med spa practice helps with the early diagnosis of skin cancer. Early diagnosis is important for several reasons. Cancer is often easier to treat during its early stages and beginning treatment right away helps prevent the cancer from spreading and becoming more serious. 

Skin Cancer Prevention  

One of the best things you can do to prevent skin cancer is protect your skin. This is especially important when spending time outdoors during daylight hours. Some ways to protect your skin and prevent skin cancer include:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher all year round 
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours when spending time outdoors or immediately after swimming or sweating 
• Continue using sunscreen even on days when it is cloudy, rainy or snowing 
• Avoid spending time in the sun during the peak hours of 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
• Wear protective clothing outdoors, such as pants, long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat
• Avoid direct sunbathing or the use of tanning beds 

There are many things you can do to protect your skin from skin cancer. Regularly examining your skin and scheduling skin cancer screenings are both helpful for detecting skin cancer early so it can be treated right away. For screening or to learn more about preventing skin cancer, contact Kind Dermatology and Medical Spa in Santa Barbara, CA, to schedule an appointment by calling (805) 250-9891.