Why Skin Cancer Screenings Matter for Darker Skin Tones
The truth about skin health is that it is as important as the rest of our body’s health. Our skin deserves the preventative measures we use for breast and colon cancer. Skin cancer screenings and catching skin cancer early can change the outcome for individuals diagnosed by a licensed dermatologist. Skin cancer does not discriminate, affecting individuals with light and dark skin tones. Skin cancer, when it is found by a professional, is typically in its advanced stages, which means treatment needs to occur promptly. Once skin cancer is found and treated, patients and their dermatologists should be diligent about annual skin cancer screenings to stay ahead of any future signs of its return.
The Body’s Armor is the Skin
The skin is the body’s best line of defense and should be considered the body’s armor of protection. People must treat their armor with care because it deserves VIP treatment.
The body produces melanin, which is directly connected to the darkness of skin, hair, and eyes. Increased melanin levels can block skin cancer, but it is not an impenetrable forcefield that ensures immunity to skin cancer. In fact, those with darker skin experience skin cancer, including Acral Lentiginous Melanoma (ALM), which appears as brown or black spots that grow over time. These spots often appear on the hands, feet, or nails. Although those with darker skin tones do have more melanin, they are still able to get skin cancer, and sometimes darker skin is more difficult for someone to see the signs without going to a dermatology office and having them perform and thorough skin cancer screening, but it is just as important! Even the most flexible person can’t see every inch of their body in the mirror, so it gives peace of mind to have a screening done by a professional with the equipment and experience to ensure nothing is missed. Skin cancer is highly treatable when detected and treated early, so being proactive about screenings is essential to keeping skin healthy.
Screenings Save Lives
Skin cancer screenings are noninvasive and quick. They are done in the office, and experienced dermatologists can thoroughly perform them and provide treatment options. Dermatologists want people to understand that it is better to be proactive about skin cancer screenings than to wait until there are signs that concern them. Some things should not be ignored when it comes to skin health, and these should not be dismissed but addressed immediately.
When a colored spot appears on the skin, regardless of where it appears, it should be seen by a professional. Spots may appear on the body in an obvious spot that makes a person self-conscious or in a spot that is difficult to see. In some cases, these spots may appear under the nails, but they should also be considered a sign to go in for a skin cancer screening. A licensed and skilled professional dermatologist can spot issues early, even on melanin-rich skin.
Dermatologists Specializing in Darker Skin Tones
Not all doctors are trained to recognize skin cancer in deeper skin tones. Choosing a licensed and skilled professional dermatologist who understands your skin is essential to getting the care you deserve. When you select a dermatologist, it is crucial to feel a personal connection and that they genuinely care about your skin and overall health. The best professionals have excellent bedside manners and treat patients with respect. Skin cancer treatments are less invasive and more effective when they are caught early. When signs of skin cancer appear, they can be treated immediately, and these procedures are often covered by insurance. Working with someone licensed and experienced will make a difference.
Tailored Treatments for Skin Cancer
Skin cancer has existed for a long time, and modern medicine has given licensed professionals access to many treatment options that can be tailored to the individual. Procedures, including freezing, lasers, and simple outpatient surgery, get results and leave skin looking healthier. Gone are the days of tearing up the skin to remove skin cancer. New treatments heal faster and do not wreck the skin. Skin that is susceptible to hyperpigmentation and keloids especially benefits from some of the latest methods of skin cancer treatment.
Invest in Your Skin, Invest in Yourself
Skin cancer screenings should be done annually, and when caught early, it is highly treatable. Booking a screening is the first step to caring for yourself, which every single person deserves. Investing in your skin’s health and being diligent about annual screenings gives peace of mind and allows individuals to get rid of skin cancer before it develops further.
If you live in Atlanta, Buckhead Dermatology is hands-down the best dermatologist in the area. Dr. Sherrie Straughn offers patients personal care and tailored treatment plans for skin cancer, and she genuinely cares about each person. Her training in darker skin tones gives her greater insight into the signs of skin cancer in her patients. Contact her offices today at 404-816-4000 to schedule a skin cancer screening.