Dermatology: Patient Education/Resources
Skin Cancer Information
Sun Safety Tips
- Seek shade, especially during 10am-4pm. Just after sunrise and just before sunset (as represented
by the top-left of our website) are the times with the least
UV radiation exposure.
- Wear a broad spectrum sunsblock that
blocks both UVA and UVB. At least SPF15
is recommended for daily activities, and higher (SPF
45+) for extended sun exposure.
- Re-apply your sunblock every 2 hours.
- Cover up as much as possible with clothing,
a broad-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Avoid tanning, and especially avoid sunburns.
One sunburn can double your risk of malignant melanoma skin
cancer.
- Teach children sun safety - sunblocks are safe
on babies older than 6 months old. Younger newborns
should be shielded from the sun at all times.
- Perform a monthly self-exam, and see a dermatologist at least once a year (sooner if you suspect skin cancer).
- Moles that are large, changing, or new
- Family history of melanoma
- Fair, freckled skin, or more than 50 moles
- Personal history of skin cancer
- Personal history of prolonged sun and/or tanning booth
exposure
- Personal history of multiple or severe sun burns, particularly
before age 18
- Personal history of radiation treatment or exposure
- Long term use of immunosuppressive drugs (e.g. drugs used
after organ transplant or to treat arthritis)
- For more information, see:
Dermatologists also treat:
- Warts
- Nail infections
- Scalp/hair infections
- Hair loss
- Unhealing wounds/ulcers
- Excessive sweating
- Any other condition dealing with skin, hair, or nails
Educational Pamphlets from NIAMS*
*This information requires Adobe PDF reader and was provided copyright-free
from the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal
and Skin Diseases.
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