What To Expect During a Skin Exam

How a skin exam from your dermatologist in Wellesley Hills, MA, can help protect the health of your skin

A dermatologist is an expert at diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions, and it all begins with a skincare exam. The dermatologists at Newton Wellesley Dermatology Associates in Wellesley Hills, MA, provide a wide range of skincare treatments and services, including skin exams to help protect the health of your skin.

One of the main reasons to do a skin exam is to check for abnormal moles and tissue changes which could indicate skin cancer. During a skin exam, your dermatologist will look for moles that:

• Are large, with a diameter over 6 millimeters
• Have an asymmetrical shape
• Have irregular, ragged borders
• Have regrown after previous removal

Your dermatologist may take a sample of tissue or remove the mole for a biopsy. A biopsy is the only sure way to determine if a mole is cancerous.

A skin exam can help protect the health of your skin by diagnosing skin cancer early when it is easily treatable. Your dermatologist may also use a skin exam to determine other skin conditions including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

A skin exam is an important way for your dermatologist to help protect the health of your skin. There are many ways you can protect your skin too. Remember to:

• Always wear a sunscreen of at least SPF 15 daily, or at least SPF 30 if you plan to be outside for an extended period
• Wear hats, sunglasses, and other protective items to shield your skin and eyes
• Try to stay out of direct sunlight between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm, when ultraviolet rays are the most damaging
• Wear non-comedogenic makeup to help prevent acne
• Drink lots of water to help hydrate your skin
• Wash your hands often and avoid touching your face

To find out more about what to expect during a skin exam, call the dermatologists at Newton Wellesley Dermatology Associates in Wellesley Hills, MA. You can reach them in the office by calling (781) 237-3500, so call now.