Have you had your annual skin check this year? Dr. Paul Kostuchenko at Westgate Dermatology and Laser Center in Thomasville, Kernersville, and Winston-Salem, NC, shares why you should make this appointment a priority.
Importance of Regular Skin Checks at Home and With Your Dermatologist
Skin cancer affects about 20 percent of the population, making it a very common issue. Though that is not good news, there is hope, as most types of skin cancer are preventable and treatable. A regular skin check – both at home and with your dermatologist – is vital in catching potential issues early. Dr. Kostuchenko and the team at Westgate Dermatology and Laser Center in Thomasville, Kernersville, and Winston-Salem, NC, explain why below.
The Purpose of Skin Checks
In addition to being one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer, skin cancer is also typically the easiest to identify. This is because the signs show up on the outside of the body first, whereas other types of cancer develop inside.
It’s important to keep a close eye on your skin for any changes or areas of concern, such as:
- New moles
- Changes in the size or color of current moles
- Changes in the shape of moles
- Dark spots, spots that change colors, or spots that become raised
- Moles that are itchy or bleed
In addition to these signs, take note of any other changes you notice and visit a dermatologist to address them. It’s important to take a thorough look from your scalp to your feet monthly.
If I Do Skin Checks at Home, Why Do I Need to Visit a Dermatologist?
If you don’t notice any differences when you perform your monthly skin checks, you might think there is no need to visit a dermatologist. However, there are several reasons to have professional skin checks, including:
- You might not see everything: It’s not easy to see every inch of your body yourself.
- You might not notice changes: When you look at your skin in the mirror each day, changes aren’t quite as noticeable.
- Dermatologists can detect and monitor potential issues: Your dermatologist will do a thorough exam, which includes monitoring and photographing any potential areas of concern. This allows for greater comparison at visits and a higher chance of early detection and treatment.
Most people only need an annual visit, but your dermatologist might recommend additional visits to monitor specific issues.
Don’t take chances with your health. Schedule your annual skin check with Dr. Kostuchenko at Westgate Dermatology and Laser Center by calling our Thomasville, NC, office at (336) 714-0238, or our Kernersville and Winston-Salem, NC, office at (336) 768-1280.