Regular skin exams are essential for maintaining healthy skin and detecting potential issues early. As the body’s largest organ, your skin is constantly exposed to environmental factors that can lead to various conditions, including skin cancer. At Tower Dermatology in Los Angeles, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brian P. Mekelburg emphasizes the importance of routine skin exams for proactive skin health. But when is the best time to schedule a skin exam?
Why Skin Exams Are Important
Skin exams are critical for identifying early signs of skin cancer, such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Early detection significantly increases the effectiveness of treatment. Regular exams also help diagnose other skin concerns like rashes, moles, and chronic skin conditions.
When to Schedule a Skin Exam
- Annually for Most Adults: Dr. Mekelburg recommends that most adults schedule a full-body skin exam once a year. This allows for early detection of any new or changing skin lesions.
- More Frequently for High-Risk Individuals: If you have risk factors such as fair skin, a history of sunburns, numerous moles, a personal or family history of skin cancer, or significant sun exposure due to outdoor activities or work, you may need exams every 3 to 6 months.
- After Noticing Skin Changes: If you detect any new or changing moles, or spots that itch, bleed, or won’t heal, it’s important to schedule an exam as soon as possible.
- Before and After Summer: Given Los Angeles’s sunny climate, scheduling exams before and after peak sun exposure months can help catch any sun-related skin damage early.
What to Expect During a Skin Exam
During a skin exam, Dr. Mekelburg will thoroughly check your skin from head to toe, including hard-to-see areas like your scalp, back, and between your toes. If any suspicious lesions are found, they may be photographed for monitoring or biopsied for further evaluation. The exam is quick, painless, and a crucial step in safeguarding your health.
How to Prepare for Your Skin Exam
- Perform a self-skin check and note any new or changing spots.
- Avoid wearing makeup or nail polish so all skin areas can be examined.
- Wear loose clothing for easy examination.
Take Control of Your Skin Health
Regular skin exams are one of the most effective ways to detect skin cancer early and maintain healthy skin. Whether you’re due for your annual check-up or have noticed changes in your skin, Dr. Brian P. Mekelburg and the team at Tower Dermatology in Los Angeles are here to provide expert care. Schedule your skin exam today and take an important step toward lifelong skin health.
