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Treat your skin well by seeing a dermatologist


Submitted Article

Northeastern North Carolina offers some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in the country. Whether it's enjoying the sun-drenched beaches on the Outer Banks, or paddling a canoe down the Perquimans River, hiking through Merchants Mill Pond State Park, or playing golf on a championship course, the Albemarle offers an abundance of outdoor recreational activities.

While spending time in the sun can be fun, and a great way to exercise, it can also increase your chances of developing skin cancer. Although anyone can get skin cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute, it's more common in those who spend a great deal of time in the sun; have been sunburned in the past; have fair skin, hair, and eyes; are over the age of 50; or have a family history of skin cancer.

While skin cancer may not elicit the same fear as other types of cancer, it is the most common form of cancer in this country. Most Americans who get skin cancer get basal cell or squamous cell cancer, usually on the head, face, neck, hands, and arms. Some unfortunately, suffer from the more severe, but less common skin cancer called melanoma ’Äî a cancer that develops when the skin's pigment cells become malignant, or cancerous.

Although skin cancer appears to be increasing in frequency, there are easy ways to protect yourself against the harmful rays of the sun. "It seems the sun is always out in Northeastern North Carolina," said Jan McDonald, M.D. Even though we all enjoy a beautiful day, with just a few simple steps you can really reduce your exposure to the sun, and minimize your chances of getting skin cancer.

"The best way to protect your skin from the sun is to limit the time you spend outdoors, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when the sun's rays are at their strongest. It's best to wear light, long sleeved shirts and pants, and a hat to shade your face. No matter what you wear, you should always wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30."

Dr. McDonald also suggests avoiding tanning beds. They concentrate harmful ultraviolet rays, and increase your chances of acquiring skin cancer. If you want to add a little color to your skin, there are several creams and spray-on tanning products available.

Skin cancer can be successfully treated if caught early. Talk to your physician if you notice any difference in the color of moles on your skin, extensive wrinkling, or if you experience sunburn easily.