According to the National Cancer Institute, there are more than 2 million new cases of skin cancer in 2014 alone. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is the number one cause of skin cancer and exposure to sunlight during the winter months is just as risky as sun exposure during the hot summer. September is National Skin Awareness Month and for yearlong protection, Dr. Sanjiv Saini of MD Dermatology, suggests five steps to prevent the formation of skin cancer.
“Anyone is susceptible to developing skin cancer, but people who spend a lot of time in the sun or use tanning beds are at the highest risk,” affirms Dr. Sanjiv Saini of MD Dermatology, with locations in Edgewater and Lexington Park, Maryland. “Even if this exposure was years in the past, a person still has an increased risk of a melanoma forming.”
To celebrate National Skin Awareness Month, protect your skin with the following lifestyle tips:
Avoid Tanning Beds. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, research shows that using a tanning bed increases your risk of getting a melanoma by 75 percent. The Surgeon General stated that a 2014 analysis estimated 400,000 cases of skin cancer may be related to indoor tanning in the United States annually.
Sunscreen. Use sunscreen everyday, regardless of the season. Be sure that your sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays and has a SPF of at least 30.
Avoid the Strong Sun. The sun is the strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., increasing your exposure and your risk of developing a melanoma.
Do Not Burn. Every sunburn increases your risk of developing melanoma. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that suffering from five or more sunburns doubles your lifetime risk.
Self-Exams. Check your skin frequently for new unusual marks or spots. If you see anything suspicious, visit a dermatologist immediately. The earlier skin cancer is caught, the more likely it can be cured.
“The best thing you can do for your skin is to visit a specialist regularly,” affirms Saini. “Maintaining regular checkups with your doctor are the best way to make sure your skin is healthy and remains that way.”
MD Dermatology offers a full line of clinical dermatology procedures including precision neck contouring, laser services, injection services, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and more. They are a medically directed spa that offers a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of every patient. For additional information, visit their site at: www.mddermatology.com.