Ways to Prevent Skin Cancer

Skin cancer can affect everyone, and although some are more at risk than others it's always a good idea to take precautions. There is a lot you can do to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer with the help of your local Colorado Springs, and Trinidad, CO dermatologist. You can learn more by reaching out to Dr. Brett Matheson, Dr. Christopher Sartori, and Dr. Martin Harris of the Skin Cancer & Dermatology Center.

Seek the Shade

Skin cancer is typically caused by the overexposure of skin cells to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Over time, these can directly affect your cells' DNA and cause them to abnormally grow.

Avoiding sunburns and tanning, especially tanning beds, can greatly help you reduce your risk. For those times when you will be in the sun for long periods, it's important to wear sun-protective clothing when possible and sunscreen on any skin not covered by clothing. Your dermatologist can help you determine the best kind of sunscreen for your skin.

Early Detection

Another important way you can reduce your skin cancer risk is with early detection and early treatment, both with self-examinations at home and with regular checkups at your dermatologist's office.

You can closely track concerning moles on your skin by following a simple and easy-to-remember rule which follows the acronym of ABCDE. It stands for asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolving, as a way to track different characteristics of what could be a potentially cancerous mole.

Your doctor can more closely examine skin with a thorough examination during an in-office checkup, they can then biopsy and remove any suspicious moles before any complications can arise.

Skin Cancer Treatment in Colorado Springs, and Trinidad, CO

If you would like to learn more about skin cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment in Colorado Springs, CO, or Trinidad, CO, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Matheson, Dr. Sartori, and Dr. Harris of the Skin Cancer & Dermatology Center by calling today. Call (719) 574-0310 (Colorado Springs) or (800) 290-2478 (Trinidad).