Why should you check your moles? This question is always discussed at the dermatologist’s office. The cancer that arises from moles is called melanoma and it is the fifth most common cancer across all age groups that we see in the United States. Unfortunately, the rates of melanoma are continuing to increase and have doubled since 1988. While many other cancers can only be seen with special imaging like CT scans and require bloodwork for diagnosis, melanoma is usually seen with a naked eye and … [Read more...] about How to Spot Melanoma
Northern Arizona Dermatology Center
What is Mohs Surgery for Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and it is estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Here in Arizona, sun exposure over a lifetime, high altitude, outdoor work and active outdoor lifestyles all add up to a dramatic increase in risk. The most common types of skin cancer we encounter in my clinic are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. While these skin cancers generally carry a low risk of spreading to lymph nodes … [Read more...] about What is Mohs Surgery for Skin Cancer?
Answering Questions About Sunscreen
I get asked three questions all of the time. What sunscreen should I buy? What SPF should I use? Are sunscreens safe? Before I address these questions, a little background on sunscreens will be helpful. There are two types of sunscreens, chemical blockers and physical blockers. Chemical blockers absorb UV radiation and then become inactive. Physical blockers (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) reflect and scatter the UV radiation before it gets to your skin. There are pros and cons to each … [Read more...] about Answering Questions About Sunscreen
Preventing the Spread of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Living in Northern Arizona, we have ample opportunities for heavy ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Our beautiful weather, high elevation and outdoor lifestyle conspire against our skin. Cumulative long-term UV exposure is a significant squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) risk factor. Individual characteristics like fair skin, older age, male gender, red hair, certain genetic syndromes, immunosupression, and chemical, viral and inflammatory exposures also contribute. SCC takes more than 15,000 lives each … [Read more...] about Preventing the Spread of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Is Your Physician Qualified to Treat You?
When we have a concern about our health, we often decide to see a physician. However, the process of choosing a physician can definitely be overwhelming. It’s hard enough just to find a provider who even has availability when you need help. Getting an appointment quickly is often itself a challenge. We assume the physician will be knowledgeable and qualified. We assume they are practicing within the boundaries of the field in which they were trained and certified. But do we really think about … [Read more...] about Is Your Physician Qualified to Treat You?
Botox Demystified
Among a number of cosmetic procedures performed annually, injections with Botulinum toxin derivatives such as Botox, Xeomin and Dysport are the most sought out by both women and men. With its rising popularity, consumers are on the hunt for information and answers to their most frequently asked questions. Thus, it’s no surprise that the most commonly asked questions at a dermatologist’s office are, “Am I a good candidate for Botulinum toxin,” “Will my face look frozen,” and “What happens when … [Read more...] about Botox Demystified
