When you are having fun in the sun, you probably aren’t thinking about the possible danger to your skin. Unfortunately, excessive sun exposure can lead to skin cancer and several other problems. However, you can lower the risk by taking a few precautions. This is especially important if you are fair-skinned, over age 50 or have one or more close blood relatives with skin cancer.
Lather Up and Wear a Hat to Prevent Skin Cancer in Orange County
If you plan to spend more than a few minutes outside, be sure to put on sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. You should apply it to your ears, forehead, neck, and face liberally as these are common areas for skin cancer to develop. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat is another way you can protect your face. If you tend to burn easily, wear lightweight clothing that doesn’t expose your arms and legs to the sun’s strong rays.
Examine Your Moles
Most people have several moles that never present a problem. If you do notice changes, report them to your dermatologist. He or she may refer you to a skin cancer surgeon for further evaluation. Skin cancer experts advise people to use the following checklist when examining their own moles:
- Asymmetry: The mole should have two equal sides. You may have a mole diagnosis if one-half of the mole is shaped irregularly.
- Border: A jagged edge around the mole indicates a possible problem.
- Color: Your moles should be one consistent color. If they are black, multi-colored or one-half is darker than the other, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.
- Diameter: Healthy moles are less than one-quarter of an inch in diameter. Anything larger than this may require skin cancer treatment.
- Elevation: A mole that has a raised or uneven surface is potentially suspicious.
Your abnormal mole may not be cancerous, but the only way to know for sure is to have it professionally evaluated. Call and set up an appointment at one of our three skin cancer locations in Orange County for a mole inspection.