Protect Your Skin: When to Get a Skin Exam [Video]

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month! 🌞
Did you know that regular skin exams can save your life? Early detection of skin cancer, including melanoma, is crucial for successful treatment.

Here’s a quick guide on when you should get your skin checked based on your age group:

1. Under 30 Years Old:
– Self-Exams: Even if you have no personal or family history of skin cancer, it’s crucial to perform monthly self-exams. Look for any new or changing moles, spots, or lesions.
– Professional Evaluation: If you notice any suspicious changes, seek a professional evaluation. Early detection is key to effective treatment.

2. 30-40 Years Old:
– Annual Skin Exams: Begin scheduling annual skin exams with a dermatologist. This is especially important if you have a history of significant sun exposure or indoor tanning.
– Be Sun Smart:Continue practicing sun safety by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours to reduce your risk.

3. 40-50 Years Old:
– Maintain Annual Exams: Keep up with your annual skin exams. At this stage, it’s important to be vigilant about any new or changing moles or skin lesions.
– Know the ABCDEs: Familiarize yourself with the ABCDEs of melanoma detection – Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, and Evolving. If you spot any of these signs, consult your dermatologist promptly.

4. 50 Years and Older:
– Continued Annual Exams: Annual skin exams remain critical. Pay additional attention to areas of the body that have been exposed to the sun over the years, such as the face, neck, and hands.
– Watch for Changes:Skin changes more rapidly with age, so be extra cautious and report any new or unusual growths to your dermatologist.

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Bonus Tips for All Ages:
– Sun Protection: Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
– Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
– Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds increase your risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Opt for safer alternatives like self-tanning products.

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Remember: Skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Regular skin exams and proactive sun protection can save your life. Share this information and encourage others to be vigilant about their skin health.

Stay sun safe and take care of your skin! 🌞

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**Disclaimer:** The information provided in this video is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dermatologist or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard in this video. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.