By: Annie Morgan
Perhaps you thought an appointment with a dermatologist is only reserved for those with severe acne or skin problems.
Or maybe you think your skin looks normal so there’s no need to go.
But the truth is, every person should schedule a yearly appointment with their dermatologist, and here’s why.
They’ll Notice Things You Won’t
Hopefully, you check your body regularly and know where your moles are – and notice if they grow or change color.
When looking at your body, pay close attention to moles that look asymmetrical or have jagged edges.
If you have a tiny mole that seems to be growing – it could be another area of concern.
While skin checks at home are good – they aren’t always the most reliable.
Chances are you can’t see every area of your body – like your back, scalp, and in places that are hard to reach.
Dermatologists are trained, and they look at thousands of bodies every single day. If something looks out of place on your body, a skilled eye should be able to catch it.
Catch It Early
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S.
In fact, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they are 70 – and more than 2 people die every single hour from this horrific disease!
But the good news is – it’s highly beatable if it’s caught early.
Don’t be that stubborn person who refuses to get their body looked at because it’s better just “not knowing.
Many skin cancer survivors are thankful they caught it early, and they are determined to spread the word letting others know the critical importance of getting checked each year.
High-Risk Group
If you lived in a tanning bed during your college years, or have suffered quite a number of sunburns, your chance for developing skin cancer is doubled.
Same goes for all the fair skin redheads with light eyes, or others with equally light or fair features.
Don’t be offended – but it’s a fact you are more at risk than others.
In fact, according to skincancerprevention.org the risk of melanoma is 10 times higher for whites than blacks – and redheads face the highest risk.
Age is another important factor — as we age, the risk for developing skin cancer increases.
Adults 70 and older are especially at risk.
Make sure you are scheduling a yearly visit with a dermatologist to look you over – especially if you are in a high risk group. They can biopsy anything that looks suspicious.
Don’t think skin cancer can’t happen to you!
Book that appointment, it just might save your life.
Do you see your dermatologist on a regular basis?
If not, what is holding you back?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with your friends and family to let them know the 3 reasons you should visit your dermatologist every year for a full body checkup!
