While many people visit the dermatologist for cosmetic treatments for their skin, there are some cases where medical treatment is needed. Skin cancer is the most common form of the disease according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Be familiar with the ABCs of skin cancer so that you'll know when it's time to visit Dr. Timothy Abrahamson at Greater Des Moines Dermatology in Urbandale, IA.

Skin Cancer Prevention

Certain factors increase the chance of patients developing some form of skin cancer. Prevention is possible by changing some daily and ongoing habits. They include:

• Reducing time spent in the sun, especially during the early hours of the day (10 am to 4 pm).
• Wearing sunscreen (including facial moisturizers that contain sunscreen) and protective clothing like linens, light cotton, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats.
• Avoid tanning salons because they expose the skin to UV rays.
• Determine if you have a family history of skin cancer and if so, make it a point to see your Urbandale, IA dermatologist for regular checkups.

Skin Cancer Detection

Doing skin checks is also a key part of skin cancer prevention. If you notice a mark, sore, or growth that isn’t familiar, these are the ways to detect if it may be an issue to discuss with your dermatologist:

• Asymmetry (different sizes or shapes on either side of the blemish.
• A border around the mark that is irregular.
• The mark is differently colored throughout (such as blue, white, red, and/or black).
• Large in diameter, growing or evolving in some way.

Skin Cancer Treatments

When caught in the early stages, skin cancer can be treated successfully with an in-office procedure such as excision, Mohs surgery, laser therapy, or cryosurgery (freezing). In later stages, more intensive treatments may be required including radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery.

See Your Dermatologist

Skin cancer is preventable when you follow daily habits to protect your skin from the elements and take care of your general health needs. See Dr. Timothy Abrahamson at Greater Des Moines Dermatology in Urbandale, IA, if you have concerns about skin cancer. Call (515) 243-8676 today to schedule an exam.