During the month of May, take better care of your health by observing National Skin Cancer Awareness Month. While prevention is the best form of protection, it’s also important to understand the different symptoms and skin cancer treatments. Before stepping out to work on your tan this summer, consider the following facts and advice about how you can protect yourself in the sun.

Early Detection Is Crucial

When it comes to skin cancer treatment, early detection can help to improve the outcome. This means fully understanding what symptoms may appear, such as atypical moles, painful lesions, an itchy or scaly bump that doesn’t respond to treatment, or a bleeding, scabbing sore that persists.

There are different types of skin cancer, which means symptoms can vary. If you notice any changes to your skin or moles, it’s important to visit a dermatologist. If a problem is detected, various skin cancer treatments may be recommended, from mole removal to surgery.

Can Skin Cancer Be Prevented?

While not every form of skin cancer can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing this disease. For starters, make sure you always wear an adequate amount of sunscreen—at least 30 SPF or higher—when exposed to the sun’s rays. Remember to reapply your sunscreen every two hours when swimming or sweating.

Additionally, if you’re going to be outside for an extended period of time, try to wear light layers of protective clothing that can mask your skin from direct exposure to sunlight, including a wide-brimmed hat to shade your head and face. Remember to perform regular skin checks for any changes to moles or other areas of your body.

Whether you have a suspicious mole you want to get checked out or simply want to be proactive during National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, talk with the professionals at Asheboro Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center in Randolph, Davidson, Stanly, and Moore Counties in NC. For more than 20 years, the dermatologists at this center have provided the vital services you need to care for your health, from common issues like eczema to skin cancer treatments. To learn more about the care offered, visit their 4 locations online. To schedule an appointment, call (336) 625-8410 for their Asheboro office, (704) 982-8410 for the Albemarle office, (336) 475-8410 in Thomasville or (910) 673-8410 in West End (Pinehurst area).