Identifying and Managing Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

Everyone is at risk of developing skin cancer, but there are a few factors that increase your risk. There are also many steps you can take to help prevent skin cancer. Your dermatologist can tell you more. The dermatologists at Saddleback Dermatology Laser and Cosmetic Center in Lake Forest, CA, offer comprehensive dermatology services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancer.

What You Need To Know About Skin Cancer

There are several risk factors for developing skin cancer, some of which you can’t do anything about because they are genetic. You are at greater risk of developing skin cancer if you have:

  • Light skin
  • Freckles
  • A family history of skin cancer
  • A tendency to sunburn easily and severely

If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to:

  • Limit your time out in direct sunlight
  • Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50
  • Stay out of the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when ultraviolet rays are most damaging
  • Wear a hat, sunglasses, and other protective clothing when you are outside

One of the main risk factors for developing skin cancer is spending extended periods out in the sun. Limiting time spent out in the sun is a good idea because sun damage is cumulative and can show up years later. If you are at average risk of developing skin cancer and you spend a lot of time out in the sun, you need to:

  • Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when you go outside
  • Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 if you spend a long time out in the sun

Visiting your dermatologist at least once each year is an excellent way to help prevent skin cancer. Your dermatologist can perform a comprehensive skin cancer screening to detect skin cancer in its early stages when it is more easily treatable.

Want To Know more about Skin Cancer?

To find out about prevention and managing risk factors for skin cancer, call the dermatologists at Saddleback Dermatology Laser and Cosmetic Center in Lake Forest, CA. You can reach them in the office by calling (949) 770-8115, so call today.