She Strengthens

Don’t Let the Seasons Fool You: Year-Round Sun Protection is Crucial

As the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer, it’s easy to think that the sun’s harmful effects are limited to the summer months. But the truth is, ultraviolet rays are present year-round, regardless of the weather. In fact, cloudy days can even enhance UV exposure, increasing the risk of sunburn.

The Risks of Complacency

As someone who’s fair-skinned, has many moles, and has had serious sunburns in the past, I should know better. Yet, I still tend to let my guard down when the seasons change, packing away my sunscreen and figuratively “losing” my dermatologist’s number. That was until I had a recent scare, when a mosquito bite led to a scab on my arm and a nearby mole started itching. A trip to the doctor revealed that the mole was growing, and it needed to be removed immediately.

The Importance of Intuition

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Timm Golueke emphasizes that personal intuition is crucial when it comes to monitoring moles. “I ask my patients if there’s a mole on their skin that they’re concerned about,” he says. “To me, it’s almost as important as the ABCDEs rule.” While the ABCDEs (asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolving) are universal guidelines for identifying potential melanomas, Dr. Golueke believes that trusting your instincts can be just as vital.

Other Warning Signs to Watch Out For

Dr. Marnie Nussbaum, another board-certified dermatologist, warns that new lesions can appear pink or flesh-colored, not just brown or black, and can be flat or raised. She also notes that people with darker skin tones need to be particularly vigilant about monitoring the acral areas (palms and soles) as well as the nails, as they’re at higher risk for acral lentiginous melanoma.

The Removal Process

Having a mole removed can be intimidating, but it’s a relatively straightforward process. According to Dr. Jill Cotseones, a dermatologist with Northwestern Medicine, excisions can be done in-office with local anesthesia. The area is anesthetized, cleansed, and then the lesion is removed, along with a margin of healthy tissue. The skin is closed with sutures, and a pressure bandage is applied to aid healing.

Aftercare and Follow-Up

It’s essential to keep an eye on the healing area, especially if it’s in a location that’s prone to tightness or limited mobility. Limiting movement and wearing compression stockings can help increase circulation and aid healing. And, of course, it’s crucial to follow up with your doctor to ensure that the mole was completely removed and that no malignant cells were present.

The Cost of Vigilance

While skin screening exams are typically covered by insurance, the cost of removal and pathology can vary. Be sure to shop around and check with your insurance provider before committing to a procedure. And don’t wait until you’ve met your deductible to schedule a skin exam – the end of the year is the busiest time for dermatologists, and it may be difficult to get an appointment.

Stay Proactive

After having a mole removed, it’s recommended that you have your skin and body checked at least once a year. But if you notice anything new or changing, have many moles, or have a family history of melanoma, you should get checked more often. And don’t be afraid to ask your doctor about photo mapping, which can help identify new moles or irregularities. By staying proactive and vigilant, you can reduce your risk of skin cancer and enjoy the sunshine, regardless of the season.