The Role of a Dermatologist in Skin Cancer Prevention

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, and early detection is critical. Your dermatologist is an expert at early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. Dr. Steve Oberemok at Tri-Valley Dermatology offers a full range of dermatology services, including preventing, diagnosing, and treating skin cancer. He has two convenient office locations in Hemet and Murrieta, CA, to help you enjoy healthy, beautiful skin.

How Your Dermatologist Can Help Prevent Skin Cancer

You are at increased risk of developing skin cancer if you:

• Have fair skin and freckles
• Spend excessive time in the sun
• Have a family history of skin cancer
• Have had skin cancer in the past

You should visit your dermatologist once yearly for a skin exam and more often if you have any of the risk factors listed above. Your dermatologist will do a complete examination of your skin, looking for:

• Red, scaly patches of skin
• Itchy, rough patches of skin
• Large moles with a diameter of at least 6 millimeters
• Irregular moles with ragged, poorly-defined borders
• Asymmetrical moles with sides that are not uniform
• Itching, bleeding, or oozing moles
• Moles that are new or have grown back after the previous removal

Your dermatologist will also discuss steps you can take to prevent skin cancer, including:

• Wearing a sunscreen containing an SPF of at least 30 daily, or at least SPF 50 if you are outside for an extended period
• Wearing a hat, sunglasses, and other protective clothing
• Trying to stay out of direct sunlight between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm, when ultraviolet rays are the most harmful

Want To Know More About How Your Dermatologist Helps Prevent Skin Cancer?

To learn more about a dermatologist's role in preventing skin cancer, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Steve Oberemok at Tri-Valley Dermatology. You can reach him at his offices in Hemet and Murrieta, CA, by calling (951) 658-9461, so call today.