Skin Cancer Awareness

Skin Cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer!

What everyday steps can you take to care for your skin?

Cleaning your skin daily with a gentle cleanser, moisturizing with a good moisturizer (I recommend ZO Daily Power Defense or Elta MD AM/PM Therapy, which are both sold at Kattine Aesthetics) and of course, sunscreen!

Why is sunscreen important? What should you look for when choosing a sunscreen?

Sunscreen protects against harmful UV rays that cause skin cancer. You want to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out, use a SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply every 2 hours! We usually recommend the mineral based sunscreens.

How can you perform skin cancer checks at home?

Performing a skin check at home is a great idea and should be done on a regular basis. The American Academy of Dermatology has some great resources on their website about how to perform them on yourself and what to look for (www.aad.org).

You want to look for the “ABCs”

A-      Asymmetrical lesions

B-      Lesions with irregular Borders

C-      Color (dark, irregular, red, white, blue, etc)

D-      Diameter (lesions larger than a pencil eraser)

E-      Evolving lesions

What differences are there between skin cancer types?

Skin cancers are divided into two categories – Melanoma and Non Melanoma. Non melanoma skin cancers are often successfully treated with surgical intervention. Melanoma skin cancers may require both medical and surgical intervention along with closer monitoring.

Why is an annual skin cancer screening important?

Annual screenings are important to check for any worrisome lesions. Especially for people with a long history of sun damage or a family history of skin cancer!

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month! Schedule your annual skin cancer screening with MMC Dermatology today by calling 615-867-8220 or visiting mmclinic.com/dermatology.

By MMC Dermatology Provider Hope Brown Owen, FNP-BC

Hope is a board certified Nurse Practitioner, who received both her undergraduate and graduate degree from Belmont University. Prior to earning her Master's degree, Hope worked as a RN in dermatology. Hope joined MMC in February of 2016, and specializes in medical dermatology. In her free time she enjoys working out, reading, and spending time with family.