UV Awareness and Skin Health: Tips from Northwest Arkansas’ Top Dermatologists
As summer reaches its peak, July serves as UV Awareness Month, a vital time to raise awareness about the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on our skin. At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC, prevention through education is at the forefront of patient care.
“UV exposure is the number one cause of skin cancer, including melanoma, which can be deadly if not caught early,” says Dr. Lance Henry, a Fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon and the most experienced skin cancer and reconstructive surgeon in Northwest Arkansas. “Even brief periods of unprotected sun exposure can lead to cumulative skin damage and increase your cancer risk. The best defense is consistent sun protection and annual skin exams.”
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nearly 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. UV rays are invisible but powerful, capable of penetrating clouds and glass. This means risk exists not just during beach days or outdoor adventures, but also while driving, walking, or even sitting near windows.
To reduce your risk, experts recommend daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours when outdoors or after swimming or sweating. Additional precautions include wearing wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved clothing, sunglasses with UV protection, and avoiding tanning beds entirely.
Mohs surgery, Dr. Henry’s specialty, remains the gold standard for treating many types of skin cancer due to its unparalleled precision, high cure rate, and ability to preserve healthy tissue. “Mohs is incredibly effective because it allows us to examine 100% of the surgical margins during the procedure,” Dr. Henry explains. “It gives us the best possible outcome—removing all of the cancer while minimizing cosmetic impact. But early detection is still essential.”
Also leading the charge in skin health is Dr. Linsey Lindley, a board-certified dermatologist known for her thoughtful, patient-centered care and exceptional academic background. Dr. Lindley earned both her M.D. and Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, after graduating with Research Honors in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She completed her dermatology residency at UT Southwestern, where she also served as Chief Resident at the North Texas Veterans Affairs Hospital.
As a female dermatologist, Dr. Lindley brings a unique and empowering perspective. “We see the long-term effects of sun damage every day in clinic,” she notes. “Sun protection isn’t just for the beach—it’s for everyday life, whether you’re walking your dog, driving your car, or running errands. The small choices we make now protect our skin for years to come.”
This July, UV Awareness Month serves as a call to action. With greater awareness and simple daily habits, individuals can take control of their skin health and reduce their lifetime risk of skin cancer.
