Your skin is your body’s largest organ, covering and protecting everything inside. As such, it plays a critical role in your health and wellbeing. So why does skin check and treatment matter? As per experts at SunDoctors, making skin checks and treatment a consistent part of your health routine is vital for people of all ages.
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Getting Annual Skin Checks
Just like you get an annual physical with your doctor, you should have a full-body skin examination once a year. A dermatologist can thoroughly inspect all areas of your skin, including hard to see places, for any potential issues. They will look for signs of skin cancer, infections, rashes, and other problems. Skin cancer is extremely treatable when caught early, but it can advance quickly if left unchecked. Rashes and growths can also indicate other health conditions. Having a specialist examine your skin regularly makes it easier to spot concerns right away.
Doing Self-Exams
In addition to professional checks, you should perform self-exams around once a month. Carefully look over your entire body, including your back, scalp, and bottom of your feet. Note any new or changing moles, odd Text, sores, itching, and the like. Use a mirror for hard to see areas or have a partner help. Comparing spots and growths over time makes it simpler to know what’s normal for you. Bring anything that concerns you to your dermatologist’s attention promptly. The sooner action is taken, the better.
Protecting Your Skin Daily
What you do each day impacts your skin health significantly. It’s crucial to avoid excessive sun exposure by wearing broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen even on cloudy days and reapplying as needed. Seek shade whenever possible. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Be gentle when bathing and watch water temperature to avoid drying your skin. Moisturize after bathing while skin is still damp. Evaluate your skincare routine periodically and adjust products as needed for your skin type. Avoid picking, scratching, or popping pimples and skin growths. Protect skin from harsh chemicals. Making prevention part of your daily habits pays off.
Knowing When to Seek Treatment
If you notice any unusual skin changes, new growths, sores that won’t heal, or unexplained rashes, make an appointment right away. Red or swollen skin, crusting, scaling, severe itching, scaly patches, and scars can indicate problems requiring treatment too. The specific treatment will depend on the underlying cause. Surface issues like acne may just need improved skincare. Other conditions like skin infections or eczema may need prescription medications. Skin cancer treatment varies based on the type and severity but can include creams, surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Catching things when symptoms first start gives more treatment options.
Conclusion
Caring for your skin should be a lifelong habit starting when you’re young. Following smart prevention strategies, doing self-checks, getting annual exams by a dermatologist, and seeking prompt treatment when necessary all work together to optimize skin health. Making your largest organ a priority just makes good sense. Be proactive and establish skin care routines that you can maintain over the long run. Your skin will thank you.
