Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US, and skin cancer awareness is one of the most powerful ways to protect your health.
At Skinworks Dermatology, with three New York City locations, board-certified dermatologist Javier Zelaya, MD, and our team provide expert medical care for skin cancer, which is highly treatable when caught early.
Knowing what to look for on your skin can truly save your life. Here, we share tips for early detection.
Early detection helps you identify suspicious spots before they have a chance to grow or spread. Some skin changes are harmless, but catching a serious condition such as melanoma early makes a massive difference in your treatment options and recovery.
The five-year survival rate for melanoma is 99% when detected early, but this rate drops significantly if the cancer spreads. That’s why we encourage regular self-exams. Learning your skin baseline helps you spot new or changing moles immediately.
The ABCDE method is a simple guide to help you evaluate moles and spot potential warning signs of skin cancer. We recommend checking your skin once a month in a well-lit room, using a mirror to inspect hard-to-reach areas. Keep these five signs in mind during your self-exam:
Experienced dermatologists using specialized tools are highly accurate at identifying melanoma compared to standard naked-eye exams. That means your monthly self-checks are the perfect first step to determine when to visit us for a professional evaluation.
Tanning myths and sunscreen misinformation continue to put millions of people at risk.
Many people believe that skin cancer affects only fair-skinned individuals or that a base tan protects your skin from damage. In reality, ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a known carcinogen, and anyone can develop skin cancer regardless of their natural skin tone.
A base tan doesn’t protect you; it’s a sign that cellular DNA damage has already occurred.
And patients with darker skin tones often develop melanomas in less-obvious areas not exposed to the sun, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or under the nails. These spots are easy to miss and often go undiagnosed until later, more dangerous stages.
Skin protection starts with awareness and proactive care. If you notice a new spot or a changing mole, or want the peace of mind that comes with a professional exam, we can help.
To schedule a consultation, call the Skinworks Dermatology office in Maspeth, Chelsea, or Park Slope, or request your appointment online today.
