Brenda LaTowsky, MD, and Kelly Pearson, MD, independent dermatologists on the HonorHealth medical staff, answer questions about skin cancer, including moles that are changing, and the need for sunscreen.
1. Is a mole that's changing more troubling than a new mole?
Both of these can be indicative of abnormal changes. Moles that you've had since childhood can develop into atypical moles. Also, new moles could be developing abnormally.
2. Is there a difference between atypical and abnormal?
Not really. We usually use the term "abnormal" to describe the way something looks. The term "atypical" is used to describe something that has been looked at under the microscope and has atypical or abnormal cells.
3. What five areas of the body should you pay the most attention to when looking for abnormal or changing moles?
You should look at your face, scalp (especially if you're losing hair), forearms, backs of your legs (especially women) and your back.
4. I have brown skin. Can I get skin cancer?
Yes, all skin types can get skin cancer. Certain skin cancers are more common in certain skin types than others.
5. Which skin cancer is worse: melanoma, basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma?
Melanoma is the fastest spreading type and has the highest mortality rate. The sooner this type of cancer is caught, the better the prognosis. Squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma are slower growing and very rarely spread to lymph nodes.
6. What are the most important things to know about skin care?
The best thing you can do for your skin is to wear SPF sunscreen. A good SPF protects against UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning rays). Equally important is the need to re-apply your sunscreen. Do it every two hours that you're outside, regardless of how sunny or cloudy it might be.
7. There are a lot of SPF numbers. What sunscreen should we really be using?
Use a sunscreen with an SPF at least 30 or greater, with UVA and UVB protection.
8. Is the SPF in my makeup enough daily sunscreen for me?
No. You need to apply sunscreen under your makeup. It's okay if it's in your moisturizer, as long as it's at least SPF 30.