“It is important to check your own skin monthly,” says Dr. Wendy McFalda, a St. Joe dermatologist.
She recommends that people examine and know their skin.
“Individuals should know the markings on their skin whether they are freckles, moles or birth marks. This way, it makes detecting changes much easier,” says Dr. McFalda. “When there are changes in color, shape or size it is essential to see your doctor immediately.”
When scanning your skin, dermatologists ask you to follow the ABCDE rule. ABCDE is an acronym for:
Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
Border: The border or edges of the mole are jagged, ragged or notched.
Color: The color of the mole is not consistent. The mole may have shades of colors from brown and black to pink, red, blue or white.
Diameter: The mole is larger than ¼ inch—approximately the size of an eraser on a pencil.
Evolving: A mole is evolving or changing in size, color, texture or has begun to itch or bleed. This also includes watching for the development of new moles.
Dr. McFalda and the American Cancer Society suggest using a full-length mirror to examine your skin, relying on a hand-held mirror for areas that are more difficult to see.
However, in addition to doing self-exams, it is important to have an annual full body skin exam completed by your dermatologist. These are especially important for those individuals that are 50 years of age and older. According to the American Cancer Society, the risk of developing skin cancer increases significantly around 50.
GUIDELINES
While it is important to conduct your monthly self-exams, your dermatologist is trained to detect any skin irregularities or suspicious lesions. At an annual full body skin exam, your dermatologist will thoroughly examine all areas where skin cancer can develop. This also includes areas that do not regularly or ever see exposure from the sun.
In addition to aiding in detecting skin cancer early, full body skin exams have other benefits. Dermatologists can treat any other skin disease or damage that they may find. Therefore, whether you have skin damage, wrinkles or age spots, your dermatologist can help create a treatment plan that is tailored to you.
REFERRALS
Please contact the SJMO referral line at 800.372.6094 for a dermatologist near you.