25 Apr Yearly Skin Exams
A yearly skin exam is the single best thing you can do to take care of the largest organ of your body—your skin. Only a skin care expert has the skills, training, and technology to diagnose skin cancer and other disorders early. RefinedMD is home to dermatological professionals who specialize in medical and cosmetic treatments alike. Patients enjoy access to the widest array of laser skin resurfacing technologies in the region along with compassionate and highly-qualified experts.
There are over 3,000 skin diseases. Melanoma is the deadliest form of any skin cancer, and prevalent in four percent of skin cancer cases. Many people connect acne with dermatology, but it is a medical specialty that treats so much more. Although acne can be a chronic and painful condition, sometimes leading to permanent scarring, dermatologists also treat disorders of the hair, mucous membranes, nails, and numerous additional skin complaints.
What is a Skin Exam?
A skin exam is a relatively quick and easy examination of the entire body. During the procedure, the dermatologist is largely checking for atypical moles which may be a sign of skin cancer. Skin exams are also an opportunity to identify a wide range of issues, from troubling acne to rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and more. With so many skin conditions, it is easy for patients to confuse one for another. However, at-home treatments aren’t always effective, and they are never effective when the wrong issue has been self-diagnosed. During a yearly skin exam, your dermatologist will discuss any concerns or questions you may have. Treatments can be recommended for a wide range of complaints.
Your skin exam is your chance to ask questions, learn more about proper skin care, and get the latest tips on preventing sun damage and skin cancer. There are a lot of myths and outdated information still being passed around. Get the latest information, like which is the best sunscreen to use in Hawaii now that so many brands have been banned. The best skin care starts with knowledgeable insight from a dermatologist you trust.
Getting Ready for Your Exam
Just like any medical appointment, you want to be prepared for your skin exam. It is a good idea to write down any questions or concerns you have in advance, so they are not forgotten during an appointment. For those who have a lot of moles they would like checked, it might be a good idea to circle them with a pen in advance. Dermatologists are the only trained professionals who can identify an atypical mole on site, but a patient’s intuition and personal experience with mole changes is just as important. If you want a professional to take a closer look at any lesion, that is always available at our clinic.
Make the most of your yearly skin exam with these additional tips:
- Remove any nail polish—nail beds can provide information on skin and nail health, and sometimes growths can appear in or under the nails.
- Be knowledgeable about your family history and ask relatives about information related to disorders (especially skin cancer).
- If you regularly shave certain areas of the body and are particularly hairy, it is a good idea to shave near the appointment to allow for maximum visibility.
All concerns will be addressed during a yearly skin check. If anything is suspicious, your dermatologist will explain next steps and what you can expect as far as testing or treatment. Detecting problems early is key for a fast and effective treatment. The sooner an issue is diagnosed, the less invasive the treatment.
Book Your Appointment Today
When was your last skin exam? An annual check is a must for every person, regardless of age, medical history, or how many moles they have. Schedule your annual mole check today and tick one more thing off your spring cleaning list. Contact RefinedMD today by calling the office or completing the online form.