According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States.

With May recognized as Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month, our team at AFC Urgent Hixson thought now would be a good time to remind you how to take better care of your skin, as well as how to protect it when in the sun.

Why Do I Need to Take Care of My Skin?

It isn’t just enough that we take care of our skin while in the sun—although that is important. But you also want to make sure you are practicing habits on a daily basis that promote healthy skin, which is the largest organ of our body.

Your skin, after all, is responsible for shielding you from the harsh effects of things in your environment, both inside your home and outside. So, it makes sense to take care of it!

Ways to Take Care of Your Skin

• Cleanse your face at least twice a day.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Make sure you are getting antioxidants through the foods you eat.
• Gently exfoliate your face.
• Exercise regularly.
• Use a daily moisturizer.
• Drink plenty of water.

What Are the Signs of Skin Cancer?

When it comes to skin cancer, early detection is key. Therefore, you want to make sure you are watching out for certain signs on your skin that could indicate skin cancer.

For instance, a small lesion with irregular borders could be a sign of skin cancer, especially if portions of that lesion look red, pink, white, blue or blue-black. Also, if the lesion itches or burns, you want to seek medical attention. You also want to look for any spots that are larger than the size of a pencil eraser, as well as those that change or evolve in shape, size or color over time.

Ways to Protect Your Skin From the Sun

• Use sunscreen every day, even if it’s cloudy.
• Put sunscreen on at least 15 to 30 minutes before going outside.
• Use a sunscreen with a UVA and UVB protection factor of at least 30 or more.
• Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours.
• Seek shelter in the shade, if possible.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants and skirts when possible, along with hats and sunglasses.

Have a rash or other skin concern? Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment with AFC Urgent Care Hixson today for a diagnosis and treatment plan.