Residents should be sure to check themselves for signs of skin cancer regularly. Consider visiting a dermatologist at least yearly to help you keep an eye out for areas of concern. Here’s how to perform a self-exam in the meantime.
- Use a full-size mirror to examine your body, especially the back where you can’t see yourself.
- Inspect under your arms, your palms, and forearms.
- Sit down and inspect your legs, the soles of your feet, and even between your toes.
- Grab a hand mirror to inspect your neck and scalp.
- Use that same mirror to look for signs of skin cancer on your back and butt.
As you perform your skin cancer self-exam, you should keep an eye out for moles that are irregularly shaped, are larger than six millimeters, are changing colors, and have experienced a change in shape.
Treatment options
If you see something you are concerned may it be skin cancer, make an appointment with a dermatologist right away. They will determine if it is cancerous, and if so, start treatment right away. Treatment will vary depending on the type of skin cancer you have but can include:
- Removing the mole
- Surgery
- Laser treatments
- Topical medications
- Referring you to an oncologist for additional care
Protecting your skin can help reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. Make sure you protect your skin when you are in the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, or staying in the shade. Your dermatologist can help you choose the right sunscreen to wear.
Charlotte, NC residents should be sure to err on the side of caution when it comes to skin cancer. It is better to have a spot looked at and have it been nothing than for it to be something and be ignored. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the team at Dermatology Specialists of Charlotte. Contact Dermatology Specialists of Charlotte, Charlotte’s top Ballantyne and Blakeney Dermatologist, for your dermatology care.