While not every skin cancer can be prevented, many cases are linked to cumulative ultraviolet (UV) exposure over time. Simple daily habits—like protecting your skin from the sun and performing regular skin self-checks—can significantly reduce your risk.
Whether you're spending the afternoon outdoors or simply running errands, taking steps to protect your skin is an investment in your long-term health.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. Fortunately, many skin cancers can be detected early—or prevented altogether—with consistent sun protection and routine skin exams.
Protecting your skin today helps reduce your risk of developing:
Small changes made every day can have a lasting impact.
Anyone can develop skin cancer, but your risk may be higher if you:
Knowing your risk helps determine how often you should have professional skin exams.
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously to all exposed skin—even on cloudy days.
Remember to:
Whenever possible, wear:
Physical barriers provide reliable protection that doesn’t wear off.
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Whenever possible:
There is no such thing as a safe tan – not from a tanning bed or from the sun.
Indoor tanning exposes your skin to concentrated ultraviolet radiation that significantly increases your risk of melanoma and other skin cancers while accelerating premature skin aging.
Professional skin exams are important, but you’re the first person likely to notice changes in your skin.
Once a month, examine your skin from head to toe, including:
Ask a family member or use a mirror to check areas that are difficult to see.
Make notes to share at your in-office skin exams on any changes that you see.
While a professional skin cancer screening is the best way to evaluate your skin, it’s also important to watch for changes between appointments.
Use the ABCDE rule to identify moles that may need evaluation:
If you notice any of these changes, schedule a skin exam promptly.
Even if you’re careful about sun protection, routine skin cancer screenings remain one of the best ways to detect skin cancer early.
You should consider an annual full-body skin exam if you:
Early detection often leads to simpler, more effective treatment.
Healthy sun habits begin early.
Help protect children by:
Preventing sun damage early in life helps reduce skin cancer risk later on.
Using broad-spectrum sunscreen consistently can significantly reduce UV damage and lower your risk of many skin cancers when combined with other sun-protection measures.
Yes. Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, making daily sun protection important regardless of the weather.
While UV exposure is the leading risk factor, genetics, immune system conditions, and other factors can also contribute.
Yes. Daily sunscreen helps protect your skin during everyday activities such as driving, walking outside, or running errands.
No. Both natural ultraviolet exposure and indoor tanning increase the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging.
A professional skin cancer screening helps detect suspicious moles and skin changes early. Learn what to expect during a full-body skin exam and when you should be screened.
From skin biopsies and surgical excisions to Fellowship-trained Mohs surgery, explore the treatment options available for skin cancer and what to expect at every stage of care.
Learn about rough, precancerous patches caused by sun damage and how early treatment can help prevent skin cancer.
Understand the most common type of skin cancer, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Learn how squamous cell carcinoma develops, the warning signs to watch for, and when treatment is recommended.
Explore the warning signs of melanoma, the importance of early detection, and available treatment options.
Expert care across medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.
Extensive surgical experience supporting precise, effective treatment of skin cancer.
A level of training not all surgeons have, ensuring advanced care.
Dedicated facilities in Fayetteville and Rogers offering complete care under one roof.
Protecting your skin starts with healthy habits and regular skin evaluations. At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC, we help patients throughout Northwest Arkansas reduce their risk of skin cancer through education, early detection, and comprehensive dermatologic care. Whether you’re due for a skin cancer screening or have questions about a changing spot, our experienced dermatology providers are here to help you protect your skin for years to come.
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC proudly serves patients throughout Northwest Arkansas with convenient locations including:
Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm
Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm
Wednesday - Thursday 8 am – 5 pm
Monday – Thursday, 8 am – 5 pm
