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Early Detection and What to Look For

We’re huge advocates for skin scans – both professional and amateur. Checking your skin regularly allows you to take note of subtle changes in your skin. If you’re just now ramping up your skincare routine with skin scans, here’s what you should look for.

Freckles:

These groups of extra pigment are a great indicator of sun exposure. If you begin noticing a prevalence of freckles on your skin, load up on SPF 30 and monitor your sun exposure. SPF 30 should be a part of your daily routine but make sure that during periods of sun exposure you reapply every 2 hours.

Moles:

Moles have more depth than freckles. These clusters of cells go all the way to the top layers of your second layer of skin. If you notice any changes in the size, shape or color of your existing moles, call us! We will examine these changes to rule out any questions you may have.

New Growths:

If you see new moles or growths, compare them to surrounding moles. Is it larger or darker than your other moles? Do you have small reddish moles near multiple larger ones? Make note of any and all differences in new growths. These are signs you should consult a dermatologist.

Early detection is extremely important when dealing with your skin. Monthly skin scans help you more accurately judge changes in your skin, so take a few minutes to observe these changes.

Know When To Go: Moles vs. Freckles

Having a thorough skincare routine is important for healthy skin. It is time to take it a step further with a monthly scan of your freckles and moles. It can be as simple as spending ten minutes after you get out of the shower making sure everything looks the same. With exposure to the sun, both freckles and moles can change, and you need to take note of these changes. What’s the difference between them, and what changes should we look for?

Freckles are groups of extra pigment on the skin’s surface. They are easily noticeable brown spots typically on your face and arms. They tend to be smaller and in groups. Freckles are common to people with lighter skin or red hair, although no one is exempt. They become more prominent with exposure to the sun but generally pose no threat.

Moles are clusters of pigment cells on the top layers of your dermis (the second layer of skin). These black or brown spots are usually small and raised. They become more noticeable with age and sun exposure. It is important to continue to keep your skin because some moles don’t show up until later in life.

Both freckles and moles are caused by too much sun exposure. You should take note of any changes in size, shape, or color. You should especially watch out for any new moles or growths. Compare them to surrounding freckles or moles. Is one larger and darker than your other moles? Do you have small red-ish moles near multiple larger ones? Or is a single mole changing, itching, or bleeding? These are signs you should contact one of our dermatologists. Early detection is important when dealing with a questionable mole.

If you have any questions about any changes in your skin, please call us today at 865-690-9467. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.