Estimates show that around 9,500 people are diagnosed with some form of skin cancer every day in the United States. Although this is one of the most common types of cancer, being diagnosed with skin cancer can have a negative impact on your life. After overcoming a diagnosis, many patients wonder what they can do to protect their skin and prevent a recurrence. Here is what you should know.
Protecting Your Skin After Skin Cancer
After being diagnosed with skin cancer, you have a heightened risk of developing another type of skin cancer in the future. This makes it essential to take various proactive steps to protect your skin.
You should regularly check your skin for anything that does not look right. You need to be aware of how your skin normally looks so that you can contact your doctor if you notice any areas of concern.
Protecting Your Skin Outdoors
Before going outside, you should take several steps to protect your skin from the sun. Some of the ways you can do this include:
- Wear long sleeves and paints
- Wear cotton clothing that is close weaved
- Wear wide-brim hats that fully shade your face and neck
- Wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection
In addition to taking these steps to protect yourself outdoors, a quality skin care regimen is also recommended.
Caring for Your Skin
Apply Sunscreen
You should avoid staying in the sun for a long time whenever you are able to do so. If you do have to go outside, it is important to wear sunscreen that has an SPF of 15 or higher. You want to apply a generous amount of sunscreen to your skin to protect it from the sun. The higher the SPF rating, the more protection you have against UVB rays.
Stay Hydrated
You should ensure your skin stays properly hydrated by applying a moisturizer after baths and frequently throughout the day. Select a gentle moisturizer to ensure your skin does not have any type of reaction to it.
Be Selective With Your Products
When selecting lotions and other products for your skin, it is essential to select products with quality ingredients. Avoid products that have dyes, detergents, fragrances, and other sensitizers.
Contact a Fort Myer Dermatologist for Help
If you are interested in learning how to care for your skin after having skin cancer, or you would like to schedule a skin examination, contact Harris Dermatology at (239) 936-3344 for their Fort Myers location or (239) 596-1848 for their Naples office to request an appointment.