Skin Cancer Doesn’t Take the Winter Off: Skin Checks Are Critical Year-Round

Rhode Island summers are beautiful, but they often bring skin cancer concerns. Beach days and long hours in the sun make protection feel especially important. However, skin cancer can develop year-round, even in winter. In New England, despite cold weather and shorter days, UV exposure still occurs. This especially applies to those who participate in winter activities like skiing. That’s why regular skin checks with a dermatologist are important throughout the year. Every adult should establish care with a dermatologist to determine the right screening schedule based on their skin type, sun exposure history, and personal risk factors.

Detecting skin cancer early is essential for successful treatment. It can often be addressed and treated at its earliest stages, foretelling an optimal outcome and excellent prognosis.

Skin Cancer Results from Years of Sun Exposure and Severe Sunburns
Skin cancer does not usually show up suddenly. Most commonly, it develops after years of sun exposure. Everyday activities like driving, walking outside, or running errands can expose your skin to UV rays, even during colder weather. A history of strong intensity (blistering sun burns) or intentional tanning (either outside or in tanning bed facilities) exponentially raise one’s risk of skin cancer later in life.  

Simply put and somewhat counterintuitively, winter does not equate to a safer time to spend outdoors. Snow reflects UV rays onto your skin just like the water, especially on your face, ears, and neck. Despite wearing proper sun protection like a hat, these parts of your body can still be exposed. 

Early Detection Makes a Life-Saving Difference
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and melanoma is one of the most serious types. When melanoma is detected early, treatment is often simpler and the prognosis is excellent. However, if the diagnosis is delayed, the cancer can grow or spread, potentially leading to more difficult treatment courses or less optimal outcomes.

Getting a professional skin cancer screening from a dermatologist can detect suspicious spots early, sometimes before you notice them. Dermatologists are skilled at identifying small changes that could indicate early skin cancer or precancerous areas.

These screenings are generally painless and should involve examining your scalp all the way down to your feet, even including your nails. The goal of regular examinations is to give you peace of mind about your skin health and educate on the early signs to watch out for.

What to Watch for Between Visits
Regular professional exams are important, but you should also monitor your own skin for changes. If you notice a new mole, a spot that looks different, or a sore that doesn't heal, have it checked.

Dermatologists use the ABCDE rule to identify potentially problematic moles. If a mole is uneven, has irregular borders, changes color, is larger than usual, or evolves over time, it should be examined soon. Additional warning signs include spots that itch, bleed, form a crust, or continue to grow.

If you notice anything that looks or feels different, it is always best to get it checked.

Winter Is an Ideal Time to Schedule a Skin Exam
Many people wait until spring or summer to give their skin the attention that it deserves, but winter is an ideal time to schedule a skin cancer screening. Detecting and treating issues early can prevent them from worsening and helps keep your skin healthy before the sun becomes stronger again.  You also can come up with a proactive plan and approach with your provider to avoid further future damage and minimize your risk of growing skin cancer.

Regular skin exams are especially important if you have fair skin, have had sunburns, spend a lot of time in the sun, or have a personal or family history of skin cancer. However, anyone can develop skin cancer, regardless of skin type, color or risk factors.

Protecting Your Skin Starts with Prevention and Early Detection
Getting screened for skin cancer is one of the best ways to protect your health. These quick, routine exams help dermatologists detect problems early and treat them if needed. 

If you have not had a professional skin check lately, making an appointment at Findley Dermatology is an easy way to get peace of mind and possibly catch problems early.