Tips from the Dermatologist: Keeping Skin Healthy
By Cheryl Bansal M.D. | Published on October 31, 2011 | 0 Comments
Seeing a dermatologist regularly is not always at the front of our minds as we deal with our hectic lives. However, there are some basic pointers to think about in order to prevent skin cancer and avoid sunburns when going about your daily life. Dr. Cheryl Bansal a Columbia, MD skin doctor with Medical and Aesthetic Dermatology explains some of the habits everyone should be practicing to reduce the risks of skin cancer and keep skin looking its best.
Prevention
First and foremost she stresses we all need to be wearing sunscreen daily. More importantly, the best types have zinc oxide or titanium oxide in the ingredient list. This indicates that they have physical blockers which are superior at reflecting light and are more water-resistant than other types of sunscreen. She points out that even on a cloudy day the sun is still penetrating our skin and increasing our risk factor for skin cancer.
Skin Cancer
According to Dr. Bansal there are three skin cancers that are the most common in the U.S. They include: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. One of the biggest myths is that skin cancer stems from moles. Dr. Bansal says that is a huge misconception and that 75% of melanoma cases do not start from a mole at all. She says there are behaviors to avoid and good habits that can help mitigate one’s risk for these skin diseases:
- Avoid tanning beds at all costs
- Wear sunscreen daily and especially when you’re in the sun
- Kids under 18 need to limit sun exposure and wear good protection
- See a dermatologist annually for a prescreen if skin cancer runs in your family
- See a dermatologist if you had blistering sunburns earlier in life (even decades ago)
Risk factors are important to consider, and Dr. Bansal says this should be a good indicator of how often you should see a dermatologist. Even if you have had one blistering sunburn or visited a tanning bed once, you should visit a skin doctor in Columbia, MD or wherever you live for a professional medical screening test. Because cancer can show up decades after exposure occurred it is critical to visit a dermatologist if you have any of the above risk factors.
For more information about this Columbia, MD skin doctor, contact Medical and Aesthetic dermatology for an appointment.
Columbia, MD
Phone: 443-542-0505
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.