Skin Cancer

Skin Cancer

What Causes Skin Cancer?

The most common cause of skin cancer is excessive exposure to the sun without wearing sun protection, such as sunscreen. The ultraviolet rays damage skin cells, causing the growth of abnormal skin cells. Skin cancer can also be caused by exposure to toxic chemicals and other substances.

Different Types of Skin Cancer

The most common types of skin cancer are squamous cell carcinoma, occurring in the squamous cell layers of the skin; basal cell carcinoma, occurring in deeper layers of skin; and melanoma, occurring in melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin color.

Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer has some easily identifiable signs and symptoms. You need to look for:

• Large moles, over 6 millimeters
• Asymmetrical or irregularly shaped moles
• Moles with poorly defined, ragged borders
• Moles that itch, bleed, or ooze
• Open sores that fail to heal
• Red, dry, scaly patches of skin

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

You are at greater risk of developing skin cancer if you:

• Have fair skin and freckles
• Sunburn easily and severely
• Spend a lot of time out in the sun
• Have a previous history of skin cancer
• Have a family history of skin cancer

When To Visit a Dermatologist

Visiting a dermatologist once each year is an excellent way to help detect skin issues early when they are more easily treatable. You may need to visit the dermatologist more frequently if you are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer. You should also visit your dermatologist if you notice abnormal moles or suspicious areas on your skin.

How Your Dermatologist Can Treat Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is treated with excision, freezing, the use of electric current to kill cancerous cells, or Mohs micrographic surgery. Mohs surgery involves removing a thin layer of tissue and examining it under a microscope. If cancerous cells are found, the next layer is removed. The process continues until normal cells are found.

How You Can Help Prevent Skin Cancer

To help prevent skin cancer, the most important step you can take is to apply sunscreen when you are outside. Sun protection factor, or SPF, should be at least 30, or 50 if you are at high risk of skin cancer or sunburn easily.

Want To Know More About Skin Cancer?

To find out more about the causes, signs, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of skin cancer, call Dr. Paul Yamauchi at Dermatology Institute & Skin Care Center in Santa Monica, CA. You can reach him in the office by calling (310) 829-4104, so call today.