As the weather starts to warm up, many of us are eager to spend more time outdoors soaking up the sun. While we all love to enjoy the beautiful California weather, it’s so important to remember the potential dangers of sun exposure, particularly when it comes to skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with over 5 million cases diagnosed each year. With May being Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it’s a perfect time to educate yourself on skin cancer prevention and protection.
Here at Skinlastiq, we believe in promoting healthy skin practices and skin cancer prevention. Our team of experts have put together a guide to help you understand what skin cancer is, how to identify it, and what steps you can take to prevent it.
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells that can develop anywhere on the body. It is caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin, which can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. The three main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of all skin cancer cases. It often appears as a raised, pearly bump or a pinkish patch of skin, and is most commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, and arms.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 16% of all skin cancer cases. It often appears as a red, scaly patch or a wart-like growth on the skin, and is most commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, and hands.
Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, accounting for about 4% of all skin cancer cases. It often appears as a dark, irregularly shaped mole or a new spot on the skin, and can develop anywhere on the body, including areas that are not exposed to the sun.
Identifying skin cancer can be difficult, as it can often look like a harmless mole or spot on the skin. However, there are a few signs to watch out for when examining your skin:
If you notice any of these signs on your skin, it’s important to see a dermatologist right away. They can examine your skin and determine if any further testing or treatment is necessary.
While skin cancer can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, it is also one of the most preventable types of cancer. Here are a few steps you can take to protect your skin from sun damage and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:
In addition to these preventative measures, there are also a few lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:
We also offer a variety of treatments that can help protect and rejuvenate your skin. Here are a few of our most popular services:
Skin cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, but it is also one of the most preventable types of cancer. By following these tips and taking proactive steps to protect your skin from the sun, you can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer and maintain healthy, beautiful skin. If you have any questions about skin cancer prevention or protection, or if you’d like to schedule a skincare treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact Skinlastiq Medical Laser Cosmetic Spa in Burlingame, CA.