Mohs Surgery, Skin Cancer | The Office of Dr. Vincent Hung
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Many people wish for tanned, glowing skin; however, tanning, if not done correctly, can result in severe skin damage.
This means that having tan, beautiful skin when you are younger may result in wrinkles and sunspots at an older age.
In addition to displeasing aesthetic effects, excessive sun exposure can cause skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to avoid harmful tanning, such as tanning beds and sitting in the sun, and switch to spray tans or tanning lotion to maintain your skin’s glowing, youthful appearance.
How Can I Avoid Sun Damage?
While the sun can damage your skin, it can also be healthy for you. The sun can provide vitamin D, improve sleep, improve mood, and even relieve stress. If you are going to spend time in the sun, you must take the proper precautions.
1. Wear Sunscreen
This may seem like an obvious tip, but it is surprising how many people do not wear sunscreen when they are in the sun. Even if you are not going to the beach or sitting by the pool, putting sunscreen on at the beginning of every day can protect you from the harmful UV rays you are exposed to throughout the day.
Consider keeping sunscreen in your car or your purse for quick access and reapply as needed.
2. Limit Sun Exposure
We are constantly exposed to the sun during the day, even if it may seem cloudy outside. However, you should significantly limit your exposure to the sun during its peak hours. This usually occurs in the middle of the day. If you choose to go outside when the sun is brightest, consider wearing sunscreen or protective clothing to protect your skin.
3. Wear Sunglasses
The sun not only affects our skin but our eyes as well. Constant exposure to the sun can cause damage to the cornea, which can eventually cause blurriness and loss of vision.
4. Wear Long-Sleeved Shirts and Pants
In many situations, we cannot avoid being out in the sun. In cases where you spend a significant amount of time in the sun, sunscreen may not be enough to protect you. Wearing clothing that covers your arms and legs can help protect against sun damage. Additionally, wearing a hat can block the sun from reaching your face.
5. Ask Medical Professionals About the Medications You Take
Believe it or not, certain medications can increase sunlight sensitivity. This means that you are more likely to burn and experience the harmful effects of sun exposure. If you notice the sun is affecting you more than normal, your medication could be to blame.
Please talk to your doctor to see if your medication is increasing your sunlight sensitivity.
How Is Skin Cancer Treated?
Thankfully, when caught early, skin cancer is treatable.
Dr. Hung offers Mohs micrographic surgery to remove skin cancer and leave as much healthy skin as possible.
If you have been recently diagnosed with skin cancer, please call Dr. Hung at his Pasadena office at 626-432-5032 or his Newport Beach office at 949-574-8292 to schedule a consultation for Mohs surgery.
