Skin Self-Examination - I Have To Check Where?
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that you perform a monthly head-to-toe self-examination of your skin. It’s important to check for any unusual or changing moles or lesions on your body that could be cancerous or precancerous. Here’s a little reminder of a few unusual places you may forget to check.
- Scalp. Check your scalp by parting small sections of your hair. If you’re unable to see every inch of your scalp ask your hair stylist to check for anything unusual at your next salon appointment.
- Underneath your nails. It’s possible for melanoma to develop under your nails. Singer, musician and songwriter Bob Marley actually died from a melanoma that started under his toe nail. If you like to wear nail polish make sure to remove all colorful lacquer at least once a month and look for any changes in color to your natural nail bed.
- Bottom of your feet and between your toes. When was the last time you looked at the bottom of your foot or between your toes? Although these areas are not often exposed to the sun melanoma can still develop there. If flexibility is not your forte try using a mirror.
- Behind your ears.The ears are a common spot that people forget to apply sunscreen to. This allows for overexposure to harmful UV rays. It’s also an often overlooked area of the body. Fold your ear over and use a mirror to see all of the crevices and folds.
It’s extremely important to check every inch of your body. This is not always the easiest thing to do, which is why seeing your dermatologist once a year is a must! Make an appointment today and spread the word. You could literally be saving a life.
