The 2026 Skincare Reset
We are officially in the new year, with resolution expectations in full swing. Whether your resolutions included eating better, exercising more, or avoiding toxic relationships, 2026 is the perfect time to set new skincare goals, too! As we begin a healthier year, set your eyes on keeping your lifestyle cleaner, your body healthier, and staying ahead of health concerns by sticking to a regular check-up schedule that includes a professional skin cancer screening. Skin cancer screenings are the best preventive care step you can take because skin cancer, when caught early, is highly treatable!
Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening Today
Beyond addressing acne, eczema, and other common skin conditions, one of the most critical roles of licensed dermatologists is helping patients identify early signs of skin cancer through meticulous screenings and a caring approach to discussing treatment and care options. Dermatologists are educated, and the best continue to grow in their field, staying up to date on new findings and treatments for those suffering from a range of skin, hair, and nail health problems. As skin cancer affects such a significant number of people, 1 in 5 Americans, screenings should be at the top of your list when it comes to getting healthcare appointments on the calendar for 2026. Regular doctor, dental, and other annual healthcare appointments often happen at the beginning of each year, so this is your reminder to set up a skin cancer screening with your trusted dermatologist. If you don’t have a dermatologist, do your research and find one close to your home or work. If you live in Atlanta, Buckhead Dermatology has decades of experience performing thorough skin cancer screenings and working with patients to find treatments and care that fit their lifestyle and budget.
Daily Sun Exposure in Atlanta
Although it may not feel like it yet, Atlanta will have sunshine soon enough. Daily exposure to the environment and the sun without proper protection can contribute to early signs of skin cancer. Self-skin cancer exams, addressing any concerning moles, and starting with a solid baseline exam by your local dermatologist are the best ways to care for skin in the new year.
Once the sun is out, activities and time spent outside increase significantly. Spending time by the water, hiking or biking, or walking downtown all expose skin to the sun’s harmful rays. Avoiding sunburn and extended sun exposure during the day’s peak risk is a measure everyone should take this year. Elderly adults, teenagers, and children all need to be protected from the sun with sunscreen or sun-protective clothing, including sunglasses and hats!
Baseline Skin Cancer Screenings
Establishing a baseline through an in-office skin cancer screening ensures that every part of your skin is seen and nothing is missed. Sun damage accumulates over time, so in one year, a person may have no signs, but the next year they may develop lesions that raise concern.
Professional dermatologists make patients comfortable, and these screenings are performed without discomfort, pain, or embarrassment. Once a baseline is established, future screenings and skin signs can be more easily identified. Concerning skin conditions can be monitored and easily treated by professional dermatologists. Patients do not always feel anything is wrong, which is why these exams and other check-ups are critical to a person’s health.
Expectation and Preparation for Screenings
Many people suffer from white coat syndrome, where they feel nervous or have anxiety about visiting any medical professional. Dermatologists are highly educated and medically trained in their field. The best ones enjoy working with people and ensure their patients are comfortable and know what to expect during skin cancer screenings. Screenings are performed in the office and are a head-to-toe skin exam, including the scalp and nails. Initial screenings are reasonably quick, can be done during a lunch hour, and are easy to fit into a busy schedule. If anything is identified I the initial exam, testing may be suggested, and then treatments can be prescribed as necessary. Many older adults may have scalp lesions from years of not wearing hats, and these lesions can be removed in the office with topical numbing ointment and non-invasive procedures.
Making Good Habits in the New Year
If you visit your doctor, dentist, and other medical professionals every year, skin cancer screenings should be part of that schedule. This year is a great time to set your annual skin cancer screening. Whether it is your first or something you have forgotten about for a few years, contact a reputable dermatologist in your area. Dr. Sherrie Straughn is known for her incredible bedside manner and for her genuine care for her patients. She has helped many patients discover, treat, and overcome signs of skin cancer. If you live or work in Atlanta, you don’t have to look any further. Buckhead Dermatology offers the most professional skin cancer screenings in the city!